The outgoing president of the United States, Joe Biden, said he seeking to preemptively pardon former congressman Liz Cheney along with other political enemies of the incoming president Donald Trump. In a rare sit-down interview during his last days in the White House, Biden told USA Today that he may pardon Liz Cheney which would mark as one more important decision before leaving the office. He is also considering the name of Anthony Fauci in the pardon list.&nbsp;
Both Cheney and Fauci have been constantly threatened by Trump with an investigation and prosecution against them. Cheney allegedly helped lead efforts to impeach Trump in his first term in the White House&nbsp;and Fauci spearheaded a fight against Covid-19 when the Republican was in the White House.&nbsp;
Biden said that after he met Trump post-election in November, he told him not to go forward with threats to target those who have criticised him.&nbsp;
"I tried to make clear that there was no need, and it was counterintuitive for his interest to go back and try to settle scores," Biden told USA Today. He added that Trump did not ssay,"No, I'm going to do it". "He didn't reinforce it. He just basically listened," Biden added.&nbsp;
<h2>The power of&nbsp;preemptive pardon </h2>
As per the US Constitution, the president possesses the power to &ldquo;grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment&rdquo;. But the power only applies to federal crimes and not state ones. 
Also read |&nbsp;How about we buy Alaska...?: Canadian lawmaker counters Trump's 51st state offer
<h2>Trump's rare praise of Biden</h2>
Biden claimed that after his first meeting with the president-elect after the election, Trump praised his economic policies. However, in his election campaigns, Trump constantly criticised Biden's administration. 
Also read | South Korea crisis: Impeached Prez Yoon&rsquo;s legal team says willing to comply with warrant &lsquo;only if...&rsquo;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World: Trump has openly criticised Cheney, reflecting ongoing political tensions and the deep divides within the Republican Party as he continues to challenge her positions.

The outgoing president of the United States, Joe Biden, said he seeking to preemptively pardon former congressman Liz Cheney along with other political enemies of the incoming president Donald Trump. In a rare sit-down interview during his last days in the White House, Biden told USA Today that he may pardon Liz Cheney which would mark as one more important decision before leaving the office. He is also considering the name of Anthony Fauci in the pardon list. Both Cheney and Fauci have been constantly threatened by Trump with an investigation and prosecution against them. Cheney allegedly helped lead efforts to impeach Trump in his first term in the White House and Fauci spearheaded a fight against Covid-19 when the Republican was in the White House. Biden said that after he met Trump post-election in November, he told him not to go forward with threats to target those who have criticised him. "I tried to make clear that there was no need, and it was counterintuitive for his interest to go back and try to settle scores," Biden told USA Today. He added that Trump did not ssay,"No, I'm going to do it". "He didn't reinforce it. He just basically listened," Biden added. The power of preemptive pardon As per the US Constitution, the president possesses the power to “grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment”. But the power only applies to federal crimes and not state ones. Also read | How about we buy Alaska...?: Canadian lawmaker counters Trump's 51st state offer Trump's rare praise of Biden Biden claimed that after his first meeting with the president-elect after the election, Trump praised his economic policies. However, in his election campaigns, Trump constantly criticised Biden's administration. Also read | South Korea crisis: Impeached Prez Yoon’s legal team says willing to comply with warrant ‘only if...’ (With inputs from agencies)

Biden may preemptively pardon Liz Cheney and Anthony Fauci after Trump's threat to prosecute them

Justin Trudeau's half-brother Kyle Kemper said on Tuesday (Jan 7) that the Canadian Prime Minister wasn't the "one actually calling the plays" during his term.&nbsp;
Speaking to the TV show "Just the News, No Noise," Kemper said that Trudeau "was basically handed a script to read...and he's kind of the quarterback."
"Him (Trudeau) resigning is like the quarterback retiring in this scenario....those calling the plays will still continue to call the plays," Kemper added.&nbsp;
<h2>'We're already the 51st state'</h2>
Kemper, who shares mother Margaret with Justin Trudeau, pointed out a few weeks back that Canada was already becoming the 51st state of the United States (US).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/girl-youre-no-longer-governor-musk-slams-trudeau-for-rejecting-canada-us-merger-pitch-by-trump-8601912" rel="dofollow">'Girl, you&rsquo;re no longer governor...': Musk slams Trudeau for rejecting Canada-US 'merger' pitch by Trump</a>
"Canada as a single state doesn&rsquo;t make sense&hellip;as 10 however&hellip;.," Kemper said in a response to a poll which asked if Canada should be America's 51st state.
US President-elect Donald Trump, who has never had a good relationship with Justin Trudeau, has been floating the idea of making Canada a part of the US since he met the Canadian PM following his victory in the November 5 US presidential election.
Thereafter, Trump has been mentioning this issue on his social media posts several times.
Hours after Trudeau announced that he would resign as PM, Trump renewed his offer of making Canada part of America.&nbsp;
<h2>'There isn't a snowball chance'</h2>
On Tuesday, Justin Trudeau dismissed Trump's suggestion that he might use "economic force" to make Canada the 51st state of the US.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-a-snowballs-chance-in-hell-trudeau-responds-to-trumps-remarks-of-making-canada-51st-state-of-us-8600358" rel="dofollow">'Not a snowball's chance in hell': Trudeau responds to Trump's remarks of making Canada 51st US state</a>
"There isn't a snowball's chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States," Trudeau said in a post on X.
"Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other's biggest trading and security partner," he added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending News: Kemper's remarks came weeks after he pointed out that Canada was already becoming the 51st state of the United States (US). 

Justin Trudeau's half-brother Kyle Kemper said on Tuesday (Jan 7) that the Canadian Prime Minister wasn't the "one actually calling the plays" during his term. Speaking to the TV show "Just the News, No Noise," Kemper said that Trudeau "was basically handed a script to read...and he's kind of the quarterback." "Him (Trudeau) resigning is like the quarterback retiring in this scenario....those calling the plays will still continue to call the plays," Kemper added. 'We're already the 51st state' Kemper, who shares mother Margaret with Justin Trudeau, pointed out a few weeks back that Canada was already becoming the 51st state of the United States (US). Also read | 'Girl, you’re no longer governor...': Musk slams Trudeau for rejecting Canada-US 'merger' pitch by Trump "Canada as a single state doesn’t make sense…as 10 however….," Kemper said in a response to a poll which asked if Canada should be America's 51st state. US President-elect Donald Trump, who has never had a good relationship with Justin Trudeau, has been floating the idea of making Canada a part of the US since he met the Canadian PM following his victory in the November 5 US presidential election. Thereafter, Trump has been mentioning this issue on his social media posts several times. Hours after Trudeau announced that he would resign as PM, Trump renewed his offer of making Canada part of America. 'There isn't a snowball chance' On Tuesday, Justin Trudeau dismissed Trump's suggestion that he might use "economic force" to make Canada the 51st state of the US. Also read | 'Not a snowball's chance in hell': Trudeau responds to Trump's remarks of making Canada 51st US state "There isn't a snowball's chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States," Trudeau said in a post on X. "Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other's biggest trading and security partner," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

He was handed script to read...: Trudeau's half brother says Canadian PM wasn't 'one calling plays' while in power

Billionaire Elon Musk, on Wednesday (January 8), took a dig at Canadian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-justin-trudeau-played-action-hero-for-marvel-comics-8601304">Justin Trudeau</a> for his comments rejecting the Canada-US merger pitched by US President-elect Donald Trump.
Reacting to Trudeau's post on X (formerly Twitter), <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/elon-musk-interested-in-purchasing-premier-league-side-liverpool-confirms-father-errol-8600449">Elon Musk</a> wrote, "Girl, you&rsquo;re not the governor of Canada anymore, so it doesn&rsquo;t matter what you say."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-heartfelt-note-for-his-friend-trudeau-says-alliance-between-us-canada-stronger-because-of-him-8600658">Biden's heartfelt note for his 'friend' Trudeau, says alliance between US-Canada stronger because of him</a>
Trudeau on Tuesday posted a strongly worded message on X saying, "There isn&rsquo;t a snowball&rsquo;s chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States. Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other&rsquo;s biggest trading and security partner."
<h2>'Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State': Trump</h2>
This development comes days after Justin Trudeau stepped down from the post of Canadian Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader. Shortly after his resignation, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, saying, "Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this and resigned. If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!"
Trump on Wednesday also shared a distorted map of the United States, which showed Canada as part of America alongside the caption "Oh Canada!&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oh-canada-trump-shares-map-of-us-which-shows-canada-as-part-of-america-8600997">'Oh Canada!' Trump shares map of US which shows Canada as part of America</a>
While delivering his first comments after the certification of his victory, Trump on Tuesday (Jan 7) said, &ldquo;Economic force, because Canada and the United States, that would really be something. You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like. And it would also be much better for national security. You don't forget, we basically protect Canada."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-calls-for-european-commission-to-take-tough-stance-against-elon-musks-interfernece-8601900">France calls for European Commission to take tough stance against Elon Musk's interfernece</a>
"We don't need anything they have. We don't need their dairy products, we have more than they have. We don't need anything, so why are we losing $200 billion a year and more to protect Canada? And I said that to, as I called him, Governor Trudeau. I said, listen, what would happen if we didn't subsidize you if we didn't? Because we give them a lot of money, we help them," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Reacting to Trudeau's post on X (formerly Twitter), Elon Musk wrote, "Girl, you’re not the governor of Canada anymore, so it doesn’t matter what you say."

Billionaire Elon Musk, on Wednesday (January 8), took a dig at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for his comments rejecting the Canada-US merger pitched by US President-elect Donald Trump. Reacting to Trudeau's post on X (formerly Twitter), Elon Musk wrote, "Girl, you’re not the governor of Canada anymore, so it doesn’t matter what you say." Also read: Biden's heartfelt note for his 'friend' Trudeau, says alliance between US-Canada stronger because of him Trudeau on Tuesday posted a strongly worded message on X saying, "There isn’t a snowball’s chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States. Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other’s biggest trading and security partner." 'Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State': Trump This development comes days after Justin Trudeau stepped down from the post of Canadian Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader. Shortly after his resignation, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, saying, "Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this and resigned. If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!" Trump on Wednesday also shared a distorted map of the United States, which showed Canada as part of America alongside the caption "Oh Canada!” Also read: 'Oh Canada!' Trump shares map of US which shows Canada as part of America While delivering his first comments after the certification of his victory, Trump on Tuesday (Jan 7) said, “Economic force, because Canada and the United States, that would really be something. You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like. And it would also be much better for national security. You don't forget, we basically protect Canada." Also read: France calls for European Commission to take tough stance against Elon Musk's interfernece "We don't need anything they have. We don't need their dairy products, we have more than they have. We don't need anything, so why are we losing $200 billion a year and more to protect Canada? And I said that to, as I called him, Governor Trudeau. I said, listen, what would happen if we didn't subsidize you if we didn't? Because we give them a lot of money, we help them," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Girl, you’re no longer governor...': Musk slams Trudeau for rejecting Trump's Canada-US 'merger' pitch

US President-elect Donald Trump&rsquo;s inauguration is just days away, and the world is curious about which world leaders are expected to attend the highly anticipated event. The ceremony will take place on January 20, starting at 12 pm ET or 10:30 pm IST, at the US Capitol in Washington, DC.
As per reports in American media, several world leaders are expected to attend Trump&rsquo;s inauguration ceremony. The list of world leaders has been prepared on the basis of information leaked to international media outlets.
<h2>Italy PM Georgia Meloni</h2>
Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, a populist leader and staunch conservative leader, is expected to be present at the event on January 20. On Sunday (Jan 5), she met Trump at Florida&rsquo;s Mar-a-Lago resort in a significant show of support. CNN reported that Meloni has received an official invitation to the event.
<h2>El Salvador President Nayib Bukele</h2>
Bukele was among one of the first world leaders who extended congratulations to Trump upon his victory in November. CNN reported that he has also received an invite to the ceremony. Notably, Donald Trump's son, Donald Trump Jr, had attended Bukele&rsquo;s inauguration ceremony last year.
<h2>Argentina President Javier Milei</h2>
Javier Milei may also attend the January 20 mega event, according to CBS News. A spokesperson for the president had confirmed the same in December. Elected in 2023, Milei is understood to have good relations with the Republican leader.
<h2>Is PM Modi invited to Trump&rsquo;s inauguration?</h2>
As of now, there is no official confirmation from either side. India&rsquo;s foreign ministry said in a statement Tuesday (Jan 7) that it will keep the media informed if there are more developments.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-travesty-elon-musk-republicans-criticise-biden-for-honouring-george-soros-8593415">'A travesty': Elon Musk, Republicans criticise Biden for honouring George Soros</a>
&ldquo;As you may know, our External Affairs Minister and Foreign Secretary recently visited the US, and we have already shared details about it through media. In the coming days, we aim to further strengthen and deepen this relationship. As for your specific question, if there are any developments, we will certainly keep you informed,&rdquo; the statement said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Donald Trump's inauguration ceremony will take place on January 20, starting at 12 pm ET or 10:30 pm IST, at the US Capitol in Washington, DC.

US President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration is just days away, and the world is curious about which world leaders are expected to attend the highly anticipated event. The ceremony will take place on January 20, starting at 12 pm ET or 10:30 pm IST, at the US Capitol in Washington, DC. As per reports in American media, several world leaders are expected to attend Trump’s inauguration ceremony. The list of world leaders has been prepared on the basis of information leaked to international media outlets. Italy PM Georgia Meloni Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, a populist leader and staunch conservative leader, is expected to be present at the event on January 20. On Sunday (Jan 5), she met Trump at Florida’s Mar-a-Lago resort in a significant show of support. CNN reported that Meloni has received an official invitation to the event. El Salvador President Nayib Bukele Bukele was among one of the first world leaders who extended congratulations to Trump upon his victory in November. CNN reported that he has also received an invite to the ceremony. Notably, Donald Trump's son, Donald Trump Jr, had attended Bukele’s inauguration ceremony last year. Argentina President Javier Milei Javier Milei may also attend the January 20 mega event, according to CBS News. A spokesperson for the president had confirmed the same in December. Elected in 2023, Milei is understood to have good relations with the Republican leader. Is PM Modi invited to Trump’s inauguration? As of now, there is no official confirmation from either side. India’s foreign ministry said in a statement Tuesday (Jan 7) that it will keep the media informed if there are more developments. Also read: 'A travesty': Elon Musk, Republicans criticise Biden for honouring George Soros “As you may know, our External Affairs Minister and Foreign Secretary recently visited the US, and we have already shared details about it through media. In the coming days, we aim to further strengthen and deepen this relationship. As for your specific question, if there are any developments, we will certainly keep you informed,” the statement said. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump’s inauguration: Which world leaders will attend? Is PM Modi invited?

Marjorie Taylor Greene, the firebrand Republican congresswoman from Georgia on Tuesday (Jan 7) promised that she would introduce a bill "ASAP" to back US President-elect Donald Trump's idea to rename the Gulf of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?page=2&amp;title=mexico" rel="dofollow">Mexico</a>.
Greene shared a video of Trump, where he was seen sharing the idea while delivering remarks at a press conference in Florida.&nbsp;
&ldquo;President @realDonaldTrump&rsquo;s second term if off to a GREAT start,&rdquo; the Georgia Republican said. &ldquo;I will be introducing legislation ASAP to officially change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to its rightful name, the Gulf of America!," Green posted on social media.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-biden-in-his-first-remarks-after-congress-certifies-election-win-know-what-he-said-8600089" rel="dofollow">Also read: Trump slams Biden in first remarks after Congress certifies election win. Know what he said</a>
<h2>'What a beautiful name'</h2>
Trump on Tuesday said that the Gulf of Mexico should instead be called the &ldquo;Gulf of America&rdquo; as he continues his expansionist streak, saying that it is "appropriate".&nbsp;
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring that covers a lot of territory. What a beautiful name. And it&rsquo;s appropriate,&rdquo; Trump said.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oh-canada-trump-shares-map-of-us-which-shows-canada-as-part-of-america-8600997" rel="dofollow">Also read: 'Oh Canada!' Trump shares map of US which shows Canada as part of America</a>
However, he did not mention how he would make the renaming happen.&nbsp;
He further blamed Mexico for undocumented migration and threatened tariffs on both of America&rsquo;s continental neighbours.
"Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country," he said.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-mexico-agreed-to-stop-migration-mexican-president-clarifies-no-plans-to-close-borders-779780" rel="dofollow">Also read: Trump says Mexico agreed to 'stop' migration; Mexican President clarifies no plans to 'close borders'</a>
Warning that the US is going to put "very serious tariffs on Mexico and Canada," Trump said, "They can stop them. And we&rsquo;re going to put very serious tariffs on Mexico and Canada, because Canada, they come through Canada too, and the drugs that are coming through are at record numbers, record numbers. So we&rsquo;re going to make up for that by putting tariffs on Mexico and Canada, substantial tariffs."
The president-elect has been slamming Mexico continually, saying it was a "very dangerous place" that was run by cartels.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: “I will be introducing legislation ASAP to officially change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to its rightful name, the Gulf of America!," Green posted on social media. 

Marjorie Taylor Greene, the firebrand Republican congresswoman from Georgia on Tuesday (Jan 7) promised that she would introduce a bill "ASAP" to back US President-elect Donald Trump's idea to rename the Gulf of Mexico. Greene shared a video of Trump, where he was seen sharing the idea while delivering remarks at a press conference in Florida. “President @realDonaldTrump’s second term if off to a GREAT start,” the Georgia Republican said. “I will be introducing legislation ASAP to officially change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to its rightful name, the Gulf of America!," Green posted on social media. Also read: Trump slams Biden in first remarks after Congress certifies election win. Know what he said 'What a beautiful name' Trump on Tuesday said that the Gulf of Mexico should instead be called the “Gulf of America” as he continues his expansionist streak, saying that it is "appropriate". “We’re going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring that covers a lot of territory. What a beautiful name. And it’s appropriate,” Trump said. Also read: 'Oh Canada!' Trump shares map of US which shows Canada as part of America However, he did not mention how he would make the renaming happen. He further blamed Mexico for undocumented migration and threatened tariffs on both of America’s continental neighbours. "Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country," he said. Also read: Trump says Mexico agreed to 'stop' migration; Mexican President clarifies no plans to 'close borders' Warning that the US is going to put "very serious tariffs on Mexico and Canada," Trump said, "They can stop them. And we’re going to put very serious tariffs on Mexico and Canada, because Canada, they come through Canada too, and the drugs that are coming through are at record numbers, record numbers. So we’re going to make up for that by putting tariffs on Mexico and Canada, substantial tariffs." The president-elect has been slamming Mexico continually, saying it was a "very dangerous place" that was run by cartels. (With inputs from agencies)

US Republican Marjorie Green promises to introduce bill renaming Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America 'ASAP'

US President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 8) shared a distorted map of the United States which showed Canada as part of America.
Sharing the post on his official social media platform Truth Social, he captioned it as "Oh Canada!&rdquo;
His post came hours after he threatened to use "economic force" to merge Canada with the US.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113789874318969723/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

While delivering his remarks at Mar-a-Lago, on Tuesday (Jan 7) Trump said, &ldquo;Economic force, because Canada and the United States, that would really be something. You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like. And it would also be much better for national security. You don't forget, we basically protect Canada."
"We don't need anything they have. We don't need their dairy products, we have more than they have. We don't need anything, so why are we losing $200 billion a year and more to protect Canada? And I said that to, as I called him, Governor Trudeau. I said, listen, what would happen if we didn't subsidize you if we didn't? Because we give them a lot of money, we help them," he added.
<h2>'Not a snowball's chance in hell,' Trudeau responds to Trump's remarks</h2>
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hit back at Trump's threat stating that there isn't "a snowball's chance in hell" for the merger of both countries.
Taking to his official X account, Trudeau said, "There isn't a snowball's chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States. Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other's biggest trading and security partner."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5njel2v-s5zq4ciw-ulyf5ydv">
There isn&rsquo;t a snowball&rsquo;s chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States. Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other&rsquo;s biggest trading and security partner.
&mdash; Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau/status/1876712025725796712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Trump reiterates proposal to make Canada 51st State after Trudeau resigns</h2>
Trump, on Monday (Jan 6), responding to Trudeau's resignation as the Canadian Prime Minister, reiterated his proposal that the country should merge with the US.
Trump took to his official Truth Social handle and wrote, "Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned."
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113782682597333035/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

"If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!" he added.
Trudeau, on Monday, stepped down as Canada's Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader as he announced his resignation during a press conference, marking an end to nearly a decade in power.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Trump, on Monday (Jan 6), responding to Trudeau's resignation as the Canadian Prime Minister, reiterated his proposal that the country should merge with the US.

US President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 8) shared a distorted map of the United States which showed Canada as part of America. Sharing the post on his official social media platform Truth Social, he captioned it as "Oh Canada!” His post came hours after he threatened to use "economic force" to merge Canada with the US. While delivering his remarks at Mar-a-Lago, on Tuesday (Jan 7) Trump said, “Economic force, because Canada and the United States, that would really be something. You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like. And it would also be much better for national security. You don't forget, we basically protect Canada." "We don't need anything they have. We don't need their dairy products, we have more than they have. We don't need anything, so why are we losing $200 billion a year and more to protect Canada? And I said that to, as I called him, Governor Trudeau. I said, listen, what would happen if we didn't subsidize you if we didn't? Because we give them a lot of money, we help them," he added. 'Not a snowball's chance in hell,' Trudeau responds to Trump's remarks Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hit back at Trump's threat stating that there isn't "a snowball's chance in hell" for the merger of both countries. Taking to his official X account, Trudeau said, "There isn't a snowball's chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States. Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other's biggest trading and security partner." There isn’t a snowball’s chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States. Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other’s biggest trading and security partner. — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 7, 2025 Trump reiterates proposal to make Canada 51st State after Trudeau resigns Trump, on Monday (Jan 6), responding to Trudeau's resignation as the Canadian Prime Minister, reiterated his proposal that the country should merge with the US. Trump took to his official Truth Social handle and wrote, "Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned." "If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!" he added. Trudeau, on Monday, stepped down as Canada's Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader as he announced his resignation during a press conference, marking an end to nearly a decade in power. (With inputs from agencies)

'Oh Canada!' Trump shares map of US which shows Canada as part of America

US President-elect Donald Trump, on Tuesday (Jan 7), reiterated his stark warning against Hamas stating that if the Palestinian militant group does not release hostages before the day he assumes office, which is Jan 20, "all hell will break out".
"All hell will break out. If those hostages aren't back, I don't want to hurt your negotiation, if they're not back by the time I get into office, all hell will break out in the Middle East," Trump told reporters at a news conference in Mar-a-Lago, Florida.
He said in response to one of the reporters who asked a question about the status of negotiations with Hamas concerning the release of American hostages by the Palestinian militant group.&nbsp;
Trump's Special Envoy to the Middle East Steven Charles Witkoff said that they were on the verge of it.
"I believe we've been on the verge of it. I don't want to discuss sort of what's delayed it, no point in being negative in any way. But I think it's the president, his stature, what he's said he expects, the red lines he's put out there, that's driving this negotiation," Witkoff said.
"I don't want to say too much because I think they're doing a really good job back in Doha. I'm leaving tomorrow to go back to Doha. But I think that we've had some really great progress and I'm really hopeful that by the inauguration we'll have some good things to announce on behalf of the president." "I actually believe that we're working in tandem in a really good way, but it's the president, his reputation, the things that he has said that are driving this negotiation. So hopefully it'll all work out and we'll save some lives," he added highlighting that they were making a lot of progress.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-hamas-has-not-given-status-of-hostages-it-says-ready-to-free-8595389" rel="dofollow">Also read: Israel says Hamas has not given 'status of hostages' it is ready to free</a>
<h2>'Oct 7 attack should've never happened': Trump</h2>
Trump then stressed that the Oct 7, 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas should have never happened.
"It will not be good for Hamas and it will not be good frankly for anyone. All hell will break out. I don't have to say anymore, but that's what it is. They should have given them back a long time ago &mdash; they should have never taken them. There should have never been the attack of October 7th. People forget that, but there was and many people are killed," he said.
"They're no longer hostages. I have people from Israel and others calling, begging me to get &mdash; we had also people there from the United States just so you know. They're holding some so-called hostages from the US, but I've had mothers come to me and fathers crying, can I get the body of their son back? Can I get the body of their daughter back?" the US President-elect added.
"That beautiful girl where they threw her in the car, pulled her by her ponytail and threw her in the car like she was a sack of potatoes. I said, what happened to her? Sir, she's dead. Like a 19, 20-year-old, beautiful girl. The way they treated her," he said as he applauded his special envoy for the progress being made so far.
"I tell this, I don't want to hurt the negotiation. If the deal isn't done before I take office, which is now going to be two weeks, all hell will break out in the Middle East," Trump said.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Trump has issued warnings to Hamas several times to release hostages before January 20, when he will be sworn in as the 47th President of the United States.

US President-elect Donald Trump, on Tuesday (Jan 7), reiterated his stark warning against Hamas stating that if the Palestinian militant group does not release hostages before the day he assumes office, which is Jan 20, "all hell will break out". "All hell will break out. If those hostages aren't back, I don't want to hurt your negotiation, if they're not back by the time I get into office, all hell will break out in the Middle East," Trump told reporters at a news conference in Mar-a-Lago, Florida. He said in response to one of the reporters who asked a question about the status of negotiations with Hamas concerning the release of American hostages by the Palestinian militant group. Trump's Special Envoy to the Middle East Steven Charles Witkoff said that they were on the verge of it. "I believe we've been on the verge of it. I don't want to discuss sort of what's delayed it, no point in being negative in any way. But I think it's the president, his stature, what he's said he expects, the red lines he's put out there, that's driving this negotiation," Witkoff said. "I don't want to say too much because I think they're doing a really good job back in Doha. I'm leaving tomorrow to go back to Doha. But I think that we've had some really great progress and I'm really hopeful that by the inauguration we'll have some good things to announce on behalf of the president." "I actually believe that we're working in tandem in a really good way, but it's the president, his reputation, the things that he has said that are driving this negotiation. So hopefully it'll all work out and we'll save some lives," he added highlighting that they were making a lot of progress. Also read: Israel says Hamas has not given 'status of hostages' it is ready to free 'Oct 7 attack should've never happened': Trump Trump then stressed that the Oct 7, 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas should have never happened. "It will not be good for Hamas and it will not be good frankly for anyone. All hell will break out. I don't have to say anymore, but that's what it is. They should have given them back a long time ago — they should have never taken them. There should have never been the attack of October 7th. People forget that, but there was and many people are killed," he said. "They're no longer hostages. I have people from Israel and others calling, begging me to get — we had also people there from the United States just so you know. They're holding some so-called hostages from the US, but I've had mothers come to me and fathers crying, can I get the body of their son back? Can I get the body of their daughter back?" the US President-elect added. "That beautiful girl where they threw her in the car, pulled her by her ponytail and threw her in the car like she was a sack of potatoes. I said, what happened to her? Sir, she's dead. Like a 19, 20-year-old, beautiful girl. The way they treated her," he said as he applauded his special envoy for the progress being made so far. "I tell this, I don't want to hurt the negotiation. If the deal isn't done before I take office, which is now going to be two weeks, all hell will break out in the Middle East," Trump said. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump warns 'all hell will break out' if Hamas doesn't release hostages before Jan 20

As US President-elect Donald Trump reiterated his proposal to make Canada the 51st state of the US multiple times since his electoral victory, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rejected Trump's threats, saying that there isn't "a snowball's chance in hell" that Canada would become part of America.&nbsp;
Earlier on Tuesday, Trump, while delivering his remarks at Mar-a-Lago, said that he would consider using "economic force" to join Canada and the US together.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Canada and the United States: that would be really something,&rdquo; he said during the press conference.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-reiterates-proposal-to-make-canada-51st-state-after-trudeau-resigns-8597494" rel="dofollow">Also read: Trump reiterates proposal to make Canada 51st State after Trudeau resigns</a>
Trudeau rejected threats made by the US President-elect that America could use "economic force" to annex its closest ally.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other&rsquo;s biggest trading and security partner,&rdquo; Trudeau said in a social media post.&nbsp;
Earlier at Palm Beach, Trump said, "You get rid of the artificially drawn line and you take a look at what that looks like and it would also be much better national security. Don't forget: We basically protect Canada."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-biden-in-his-first-remarks-after-congress-certifies-election-win-know-what-he-said-8600089" rel="dofollow">Also read: Trump slams Biden in first remarks after Congress certifies election win. Know what he said</a>
Further criticising the US spending on Canadian goods, Trump said that the country is still not obligated to support its closest neighbour economically.&nbsp;
<h2>'Complete lack of understanding'</h2>
Canada's Foreign Minister Melanie Joly also criticised Trump's remarks, saying that they showed a "complete lack of understanding of what makes Canada a strong country."
She added that Canada will never back down in the face of threats.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-anita-anand-indian-origin-leader-among-contenders-for-next-canada-pm-8598296" rel="dofollow">Also read: Who is Anita Anand, Indian-origin leader among contenders for next Canada PM?</a>
<h2>'Threatening Canada'</h2>
Gordon Giffin, a former US ambassador to Canada, said Trump's blustering about absorbing his northern neighbour is only a negotiating strategy to add urgency to his long-standing economic grievances.
"Threatening Canada? I guess it sounded like that, but in the final analysis, I think it's all about economics and I think he's had economic frustrations with respect to the North American economic experience since his first term," Giffin told CBC News Network.&nbsp;
He added, "Whether he means some 'acquisition' of Canada by the United States by any means? I actually don't believe that."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-prime-minister-trudeau-to-step-down-as-liberal-party-leader-ending-nearly-10-yrs-in-power-8596893" rel="dofollow">Also read: Justin Trudeau resigns as Canada Prime Minister, Liberal Party leader citing &lsquo;internal battles&rsquo;</a>
<h2>'No Canadian wants to join you'</h2>
Meanwhile, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh defended Canada, slamming Trump's remarks.&nbsp;
"No Canadian wants to join you. We are proud Canadians. Proud of the way we take care of each other and defend our nation. Your attacks will hurt jobs on both sides of the border," he said in a social media post.&nbsp;
"You come for Canadians' jobs, Americans will pay a price," he added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Canadian PM Justin Trudeau rejected threats made by the US President-elect that America could use "economic force" to annex its closest ally. 

As US President-elect Donald Trump reiterated his proposal to make Canada the 51st state of the US multiple times since his electoral victory, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rejected Trump's threats, saying that there isn't "a snowball's chance in hell" that Canada would become part of America. Earlier on Tuesday, Trump, while delivering his remarks at Mar-a-Lago, said that he would consider using "economic force" to join Canada and the US together. “Canada and the United States: that would be really something,” he said during the press conference. Also read: Trump reiterates proposal to make Canada 51st State after Trudeau resigns Trudeau rejected threats made by the US President-elect that America could use "economic force" to annex its closest ally. “Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other’s biggest trading and security partner,” Trudeau said in a social media post. Earlier at Palm Beach, Trump said, "You get rid of the artificially drawn line and you take a look at what that looks like and it would also be much better national security. Don't forget: We basically protect Canada." Also read: Trump slams Biden in first remarks after Congress certifies election win. Know what he said Further criticising the US spending on Canadian goods, Trump said that the country is still not obligated to support its closest neighbour economically. 'Complete lack of understanding' Canada's Foreign Minister Melanie Joly also criticised Trump's remarks, saying that they showed a "complete lack of understanding of what makes Canada a strong country." She added that Canada will never back down in the face of threats. Also read: Who is Anita Anand, Indian-origin leader among contenders for next Canada PM? 'Threatening Canada' Gordon Giffin, a former US ambassador to Canada, said Trump's blustering about absorbing his northern neighbour is only a negotiating strategy to add urgency to his long-standing economic grievances. "Threatening Canada? I guess it sounded like that, but in the final analysis, I think it's all about economics and I think he's had economic frustrations with respect to the North American economic experience since his first term," Giffin told CBC News Network. He added, "Whether he means some 'acquisition' of Canada by the United States by any means? I actually don't believe that." Also read: Justin Trudeau resigns as Canada Prime Minister, Liberal Party leader citing ‘internal battles’ 'No Canadian wants to join you' Meanwhile, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh defended Canada, slamming Trump's remarks. "No Canadian wants to join you. We are proud Canadians. Proud of the way we take care of each other and defend our nation. Your attacks will hurt jobs on both sides of the border," he said in a social media post. "You come for Canadians' jobs, Americans will pay a price," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Not a snowball's chance in hell': Trudeau responds to Trump's remarks of making Canada 51st US state

Donald Trump has succeeded in temporarily blocking the release of a report by outgoing special counsel Jack Smith. Judge Aileen Cannon on Tuesday (Jan 7) issued an order preventing the US Justice Department from releasing the report following Smith's prosecution of the president-elect for his attempts to overturn election results and his withholding of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago compound.
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<h2>Judge Cannon's order</h2>
Federal Judge Aileen Cannon ruled that the release of the report should be blocked while the ongoing legal battle plays out. She said that her order &ldquo;remains in effect until three days after resolution by the Eleventh Circuit of the Emergency Motion, unless the Eleventh Circuit orders otherwise&rdquo;.
The classified documents case against Trump remains open in the appeals court.
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Judge Cannon, in her order, noted that she makes no determination on when the report is to be released but leaves the entire matter to the appeals court to decide.
<h2>Trump's looming inauguration</h2>
The legal battle unfolds just weeks before Trump's second-term inauguration, intensifying scrutiny over Smith's investigations. czzzz
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-father-errol-musk-urges-britishers-to-ignore-him-on-uk-politics-heres-why-controversy-musk-controversy-keir-starmer-8599870" aria-label="Elon Musk's father, Errol Musk, urges Brits to 'ignore him'. Here's why">Elon Musk's father, Errol Musk, urges Brits to 'ignore him'. Here's why</a>
<h2>The importance of the report</h2>
Special counsels are obligated under DOJ regulations to produce reports detailing their findings and decisions.
Smith has announced that he plans to resign before Trump's inauguration on January 20, and in a court filing on Tuesday, he said he was preparing a &ldquo;two-volume confidential report&rdquo; for Attorney General Merrick Garland.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | US Federal Judge Aileen Cannon temporarily halts the release of a report by special counsel Jack Smith on Donald Trump's cases, pending appeals court decision.

Donald Trump has succeeded in temporarily blocking the release of a report by outgoing special counsel Jack Smith. Judge Aileen Cannon on Tuesday (Jan 7) issued an order preventing the US Justice Department from releasing the report following Smith's prosecution of the president-elect for his attempts to overturn election results and his withholding of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago compound. Also read | Trump slams Biden in his first remarks after Congress certifies election win. Know what he said Judge Cannon's order Federal Judge Aileen Cannon ruled that the release of the report should be blocked while the ongoing legal battle plays out. She said that her order “remains in effect until three days after resolution by the Eleventh Circuit of the Emergency Motion, unless the Eleventh Circuit orders otherwise”. The classified documents case against Trump remains open in the appeals court. Also read | Jean-Marie Le Pen, controversial France far-right leader, dies at 96. Who was he? Judge Cannon, in her order, noted that she makes no determination on when the report is to be released but leaves the entire matter to the appeals court to decide. Trump's looming inauguration The legal battle unfolds just weeks before Trump's second-term inauguration, intensifying scrutiny over Smith's investigations. czzzz Also read | Elon Musk's father, Errol Musk, urges Brits to 'ignore him'. Here's why The importance of the report Special counsels are obligated under DOJ regulations to produce reports detailing their findings and decisions. Smith has announced that he plans to resign before Trump's inauguration on January 20, and in a court filing on Tuesday, he said he was preparing a “two-volume confidential report” for Attorney General Merrick Garland. (With inputs from agencies)

US Federal Judge temporarily blocks special counsel Jack Smith's report on Trump cases

As US President Joe Biden announced the ban on new offshore oil and gas development along most US coastlines in the closing weeks of his term in office, a US-based energy research firm said that President-elect Donald Trump would not be able to reverse Biden's action.&nbsp;
ClearView Energy Partners Director of Research Kevin Book told Newsweek, "Our perception is that it can't be reversed by executive action", adding that this is not the same thing as saying that it cannot be reversed, however.&nbsp;
Biden's order comes amid Trump's pledge to "drill, baby, drill" campaign slogan. His slogan has become synonymous with his plan to boost fossil fuel production in the US and reverse climate policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-bans-offshore-drilling-across-most-us-coastlines-trump-vows-reversal-8597214" rel="dofollow">Biden bans offshore drilling across most US coastlines, Trump vows reversal</a>
Trump, while seeking reelection in 2020, withdrew waters in parts of the South Atlantic coast for 10 years. However, an earlier showdown over offshore drilling in other waters provided a test of presidential powers, Book said.&nbsp;
Biden used the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, a law that permits presidents to limit future drilling in federal waters.&nbsp;
Trump and Biden, both have used the law in their terms, to temporarily withdraw offshore tracts where drilling was environmentally damaging or politically contentious.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storm-blair-hits-us-massive-transport-energy-chaos-erupts-in-seven-states-five-dead-8598077" rel="dofollow">Storm Blair hits US: Massive transport, energy chaos erupts in seven states; five dead</a>
Earlier, Barack Obama also withdrew large stretches of waters from drilling. But, in 2017, Trump issued an executive order to reverse Obama's action and restore future drilling permits.&nbsp;
However, later, the US District Court for Alaska found that Trump did not have the authority to reverse Obama's action. But, before an appeals court heard the case, Biden took over the administration and reversed Trump's policy.&nbsp;
Noting the past actions on the law, Kevin Book noted that it would take an act of Congress to undo Biden's latest action, withdrawing federal waters from future drilling permits.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hush-money-case-judge-rejects-trumps-plea-to-delay-sentencing-8597798" rel="dofollow">Hush money case: Judge rejects Trump&rsquo;s plea to delay sentencing</a>
"Congress could pass a law reopening the withdrawn real estate, and Republicans might be able to do so on a party-line basis," Book said.
<h2>Trump calls it 'ridiculous'</h2>
After Biden announced a permanent ban on 625 million acres off the US coastline, including the entire East Coast, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California, and parts of the Northern Bering Sea, Trump said it is "ridiculous" and he will "unban it immediately".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-congress-formally-certifies-donald-trumps-election-as-president-8597130" rel="dofollow">US Congress certifies Trump's election as president, four years after Capitol riot</a>
He further accused President Biden of doing everything possible to make the TRANSITION as difficult as possible&rdquo;.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump and Biden, both have used the law in their terms, to temporarily withdraw offshore tracts where drilling was environmentally damaging or politically contentious.

As US President Joe Biden announced the ban on new offshore oil and gas development along most US coastlines in the closing weeks of his term in office, a US-based energy research firm said that President-elect Donald Trump would not be able to reverse Biden's action. ClearView Energy Partners Director of Research Kevin Book told Newsweek, "Our perception is that it can't be reversed by executive action", adding that this is not the same thing as saying that it cannot be reversed, however. Biden's order comes amid Trump's pledge to "drill, baby, drill" campaign slogan. His slogan has become synonymous with his plan to boost fossil fuel production in the US and reverse climate policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions. Also read: Biden bans offshore drilling across most US coastlines, Trump vows reversal Trump, while seeking reelection in 2020, withdrew waters in parts of the South Atlantic coast for 10 years. However, an earlier showdown over offshore drilling in other waters provided a test of presidential powers, Book said. Biden used the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, a law that permits presidents to limit future drilling in federal waters. Trump and Biden, both have used the law in their terms, to temporarily withdraw offshore tracts where drilling was environmentally damaging or politically contentious. Also read: Storm Blair hits US: Massive transport, energy chaos erupts in seven states; five dead Earlier, Barack Obama also withdrew large stretches of waters from drilling. But, in 2017, Trump issued an executive order to reverse Obama's action and restore future drilling permits. However, later, the US District Court for Alaska found that Trump did not have the authority to reverse Obama's action. But, before an appeals court heard the case, Biden took over the administration and reversed Trump's policy. Noting the past actions on the law, Kevin Book noted that it would take an act of Congress to undo Biden's latest action, withdrawing federal waters from future drilling permits. Also read: Hush money case: Judge rejects Trump’s plea to delay sentencing "Congress could pass a law reopening the withdrawn real estate, and Republicans might be able to do so on a party-line basis," Book said. Trump calls it 'ridiculous' After Biden announced a permanent ban on 625 million acres off the US coastline, including the entire East Coast, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California, and parts of the Northern Bering Sea, Trump said it is "ridiculous" and he will "unban it immediately". Also read: US Congress certifies Trump's election as president, four years after Capitol riot He further accused President Biden of doing everything possible to make the TRANSITION as difficult as possible”. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden's offshore drilling ban: Why can't Trump undo it? Read to know

US President-elect Donald Trump, on Monday (Jan 6), responded to Justin Trudeau's resignation as the Canadian Prime Minister by reiterating his proposal that the country should merge with the United States.
Trump took to his official Truth Social handle and wrote, "Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned."
"If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!" he added.
Trudeau, on Monday, stepped down as Canada's Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader as he announced his resignation during a press conference, marking an end to nearly a decade in power.&nbsp;
Trudeau said, "I intend to resign as party leader, as Prime Minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide competitive process."
"This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I'm having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election," he added.
"A new Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Party will carry its values and ideals into that next election. I'm excited to see the process unfold in the months ahead," Trudeau further said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-prime-minister-trudeau-to-step-down-as-liberal-party-leader-ending-nearly-10-yrs-in-power-8596893" rel="dofollow">Also read: Justin Trudeau resigns as Canada Prime Minister, Liberal Party leader citing &lsquo;internal battles&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Trump calls Trudeau Canada&rsquo;s 'governor'&nbsp;</h2>
This is not the first time Trump has mocked Trudeau. Earlier, he took a jibe at the former Canadian leader calling him Canada&rsquo;s &ldquo;governor&rdquo;.&nbsp;
He denounced Canada for its trade practices alleging that Ottawa exploited Washington.
"No one can answer why we subsidise Canada to the tune of over $100,000,000 a year?" Trump wrote in a post on his social media handle in December.
"Makes no sense! Many Canadians want Canada to become the 51st State. They would save massively on Taxes and military protection," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

Trudeau, on Monday, stepped down as Canada's Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader as he announced his resignation during a press conference, marking an end to nearly a decade in power. 


US President-elect Donald Trump, on Monday (Jan 6), responded to Justin Trudeau's resignation as the Canadian Prime Minister by reiterating his proposal that the country should merge with the United States. Trump took to his official Truth Social handle and wrote, "Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned." "If Canada merged with the U.S., there would be no Tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be TOTALLY SECURE from the threat of the Russian and Chinese Ships that are constantly surrounding them. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!" he added. Trudeau, on Monday, stepped down as Canada's Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader as he announced his resignation during a press conference, marking an end to nearly a decade in power. Trudeau said, "I intend to resign as party leader, as Prime Minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide competitive process." "This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I'm having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election," he added. "A new Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Party will carry its values and ideals into that next election. I'm excited to see the process unfold in the months ahead," Trudeau further said. Also read: Justin Trudeau resigns as Canada Prime Minister, Liberal Party leader citing ‘internal battles’ Trump calls Trudeau Canada’s 'governor' This is not the first time Trump has mocked Trudeau. Earlier, he took a jibe at the former Canadian leader calling him Canada’s “governor”. He denounced Canada for its trade practices alleging that Ottawa exploited Washington. "No one can answer why we subsidise Canada to the tune of over $100,000,000 a year?" Trump wrote in a post on his social media handle in December. "Makes no sense! Many Canadians want Canada to become the 51st State. They would save massively on Taxes and military protection," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump reiterates proposal to make Canada 51st State after Trudeau resigns

The US Congress on Monday (January 6) formally certified&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-slams-joe-biden-mourning-for-jimmy-carter-or-democrat-conspiracy-trump-criticises-biden-for-half-mast-flags-8592688" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump's</a> election as president, exactly four years after a mob of his supporters stormed the Capitol in a failed bid to block the certification of his 2020 loss.&nbsp;Trump will be inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States on January 20, Monday.
&ldquo;The state of the vote for the president of the United States as delivered to the president of the Senate is as follows: the whole number of the electors appointed to vote for president of the United States is 538. Within that whole number, the majority is 270. The votes for president of the United States are as follows: Donald J Trump of the state of Florida has received 312 votes,&rdquo; US Vice President Kamala Harris said, announcing Trump's win.
&ldquo;Kamala D Harris of the State of California has received 226 votes,&rdquo; she added.
The vice-president then made formal the results of the electoral count.
&ldquo;This announcement of the state of the vote by the president of the Senate shall be deemed a sufficient declaration of the persons elected president and vice-president of the United States, each for a term beginning on the 20th day of January, 2025 and shall be entered together with the list of the votes on the journals of the House and the Senate,&rdquo; Harris said before she gaveled the joint session to a close.
<h2>No disorder, unlike 2021 Capitol riot</h2>
Unlike the disorder of 2021, there were no signs of similar unrest this time, though security at the Capitol was heightened. Since Capitol riot of 2021, more than 1,500 individuals have faced charges for their roles in the attack. Trump vowed to pardon many of them if he assumes office for a second term.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-posts-throwback-image-from-capitol-riots-ahead-of-his-certification-as-2024-election-winner-8596663">Donald Trump stirs 2021 Capitol riot memories ahead of his certification as US election winner</a>
Ahead of the certification, the US Capitol Police stepped up the security by enlisting support from at least 18 other law enforcement agencies, including officers from New York and Baltimore, to ensure the safety of the proceedings.
The joint session of Congress took place amid challenging weather conditions as a winter storm swept across Washington, DC. Despite the snowfall, US House Speaker Mike Johnson, urged lawmakers to remain in the capital for the vote.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-prime-minister-trudeau-to-step-down-as-liberal-party-leader-ending-nearly-10-yrs-in-power-8596893" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Justin Trudeau resigns as Canada Prime Minister, Liberal Party leader citing &lsquo;internal&nbsp;battles&rsquo;</a>
Reports suggested that some Democrats had plans to contest the certification of Trump's election as president.
Vice President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-capital-riot-should-not-be-rewritten-says-biden-day-before-trumps-certification-8594343">Kamala Harris</a>, who lost the November presidential election to Trump, presided over the certification. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) ahead of the certification, Harris vowed to uphold the "sacred obligation" of overseeing the vote.
Ahead of the certification, Trump posted on Truth Social, "Biden is doing everything possible to make the TRANSITION as difficult as possible, from Lawfare such as has never been seen before, to costly and ridiculous Executive Orders on the Green New Scam and other money wasting Hoaxes. Fear not, these &ldquo;Orders&rdquo; will all be terminated shortly, and we will become a Nation of Common Sense and Strength. MAGA!!!"
In the 2024 US elections, Harris won 226 electoral votes, while Trump received 312 Electoral College votes, much higher than the 270 required to win.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump's certification as president comes exactly four years after a mob of his supporters stormed the Capitol in a failed bid to block the certification of his 2020 loss.

The US Congress on Monday (January 6) formally certified Donald Trump's election as president, exactly four years after a mob of his supporters stormed the Capitol in a failed bid to block the certification of his 2020 loss. Trump will be inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States on January 20, Monday. “The state of the vote for the president of the United States as delivered to the president of the Senate is as follows: the whole number of the electors appointed to vote for president of the United States is 538. Within that whole number, the majority is 270. The votes for president of the United States are as follows: Donald J Trump of the state of Florida has received 312 votes,” US Vice President Kamala Harris said, announcing Trump's win. “Kamala D Harris of the State of California has received 226 votes,” she added. The vice-president then made formal the results of the electoral count. “This announcement of the state of the vote by the president of the Senate shall be deemed a sufficient declaration of the persons elected president and vice-president of the United States, each for a term beginning on the 20th day of January, 2025 and shall be entered together with the list of the votes on the journals of the House and the Senate,” Harris said before she gaveled the joint session to a close. No disorder, unlike 2021 Capitol riot Unlike the disorder of 2021, there were no signs of similar unrest this time, though security at the Capitol was heightened. Since Capitol riot of 2021, more than 1,500 individuals have faced charges for their roles in the attack. Trump vowed to pardon many of them if he assumes office for a second term. Also read: Donald Trump stirs 2021 Capitol riot memories ahead of his certification as US election winner Ahead of the certification, the US Capitol Police stepped up the security by enlisting support from at least 18 other law enforcement agencies, including officers from New York and Baltimore, to ensure the safety of the proceedings. The joint session of Congress took place amid challenging weather conditions as a winter storm swept across Washington, DC. Despite the snowfall, US House Speaker Mike Johnson, urged lawmakers to remain in the capital for the vote. Also read: Justin Trudeau resigns as Canada Prime Minister, Liberal Party leader citing ‘internal battles’ Reports suggested that some Democrats had plans to contest the certification of Trump's election as president. Vice President Kamala Harris, who lost the November presidential election to Trump, presided over the certification. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) ahead of the certification, Harris vowed to uphold the "sacred obligation" of overseeing the vote. Ahead of the certification, Trump posted on Truth Social, "Biden is doing everything possible to make the TRANSITION as difficult as possible, from Lawfare such as has never been seen before, to costly and ridiculous Executive Orders on the Green New Scam and other money wasting Hoaxes. Fear not, these “Orders” will all be terminated shortly, and we will become a Nation of Common Sense and Strength. MAGA!!!" In the 2024 US elections, Harris won 226 electoral votes, while Trump received 312 Electoral College votes, much higher than the 270 required to win. (With inputs from agencies)

US Congress certifies Trump's election as president, four years after Capitol riot

In what seemed like a chilling reminder of the Capitol riot, former US President Donald Trump on Monday (January 6) shared a photograph shortly before the certification of the 2024 election results.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/considering-all-options-nippon-steel-may-take-us-government-to-court-over-decision-to-halt-iconic-firms-acquisition-8595138">Nippon Steel, US Steel sue Biden administration for halting multi-billion dollar merger</a>
The image, originally taken during the 2021 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-congress-to-certify-trumps-election-as-president-despite-unfavourable-weather-8596654">Capitol riot</a>, was posted on Trump&rsquo;s Truth Social platform. It shows a crowd gathered near the Washington Monument on the day a mob of his supporters stormed the US Capitol building. The attack was an attempt to disrupt the certification of President Joe Biden&rsquo;s victory in the 2020 presidential election, causing lawmakers to evacuate.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-macron-accuses-elon-musk-of-election-interference-in-germany-8596459">After Germany, France accuses Elon Musk of 'direct intervention' in elections; Norway PM terms it 'worrying'</a>
Trump also posted on his social media platform, &ldquo;CONGRESS CERTIFIES OUR GREAT ELECTION VICTORY TODAY &mdash; A BIG MOMENT IN HISTORY. MAGA!&rdquo;
In a separate post, Trump quoted Musk, saying, &ldquo;Had this election not been won by Donald Trump, civilisation would be lost.&rdquo; The US Capitol Police has enlisted help from at least 18 other law enforcement agencies.&nbsp;
<h2>What happened during the Capitol riot?</h2>
After Biden&rsquo;s win in the 2020 US presidential elections, Trump called for Congress and the vice president to block the Democrat's certification. He alleged election fraud had led to his defeat.
On the election certification day, thousands of Trump supporters rallied outside the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-the-us-capitol-riot-anniversary-heres-what-happened-four-years-ago-8595915">White House</a> and attacked the Capitol building, which led to a delay in Biden&rsquo;s certification until the next morning.
Defending his role in instigating the riot, Trump has previously claimed that the thousands of people who travelled to Washington, DC, that day did so because "they thought the election was a rigged election&rdquo;.
"Nothing done wrong at all. There were no guns down there. We didn&rsquo;t have guns. The others had guns, but we didn&rsquo;t have guns. And when I say we, these are people that walked down&mdash;this was a tiny percentage of the overall, which nobody sees and nobody, nobody shows. But that was a day of love," he added.
Ahead of the Capitol riot anniversary, US President Joe Biden said on Sunday (Jan 5) that the events of January 6, 2021, should not be forgotten or &ldquo;rewritten&rdquo;.
"I don't think we should pretend it didn't happen," Biden told reporters at the White House.
"I think what he did was a genuine threat to democracy. I'm hopeful that we're beyond it," he added.
"I think it should not be rewritten, I don't think it should be forgotten," he said.
(With inputs form agencies)

World: The image, originally taken during the 2021 Capitol riot, was posted on Trump’s Truth Social platform.  It shows a crowd gathered near the Washington Monument on the day a mob of his supporters stormed the US Capitol building. 

In what seemed like a chilling reminder of the Capitol riot, former US President Donald Trump on Monday (January 6) shared a photograph shortly before the certification of the 2024 election results. Also read: Nippon Steel, US Steel sue Biden administration for halting multi-billion dollar merger The image, originally taken during the 2021 Capitol riot, was posted on Trump’s Truth Social platform. It shows a crowd gathered near the Washington Monument on the day a mob of his supporters stormed the US Capitol building. The attack was an attempt to disrupt the certification of President Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 presidential election, causing lawmakers to evacuate. Also read: After Germany, France accuses Elon Musk of 'direct intervention' in elections; Norway PM terms it 'worrying' Trump also posted on his social media platform, “CONGRESS CERTIFIES OUR GREAT ELECTION VICTORY TODAY — A BIG MOMENT IN HISTORY. MAGA!” In a separate post, Trump quoted Musk, saying, “Had this election not been won by Donald Trump, civilisation would be lost.” The US Capitol Police has enlisted help from at least 18 other law enforcement agencies. What happened during the Capitol riot? After Biden’s win in the 2020 US presidential elections, Trump called for Congress and the vice president to block the Democrat's certification. He alleged election fraud had led to his defeat. On the election certification day, thousands of Trump supporters rallied outside the White House and attacked the Capitol building, which led to a delay in Biden’s certification until the next morning. Defending his role in instigating the riot, Trump has previously claimed that the thousands of people who travelled to Washington, DC, that day did so because "they thought the election was a rigged election”. "Nothing done wrong at all. There were no guns down there. We didn’t have guns. The others had guns, but we didn’t have guns. And when I say we, these are people that walked down—this was a tiny percentage of the overall, which nobody sees and nobody, nobody shows. But that was a day of love," he added. Ahead of the Capitol riot anniversary, US President Joe Biden said on Sunday (Jan 5) that the events of January 6, 2021, should not be forgotten or “rewritten”. "I don't think we should pretend it didn't happen," Biden told reporters at the White House. "I think what he did was a genuine threat to democracy. I'm hopeful that we're beyond it," he added. "I think it should not be rewritten, I don't think it should be forgotten," he said. (With inputs form agencies)

Donald Trump stirs 2021 Capitol riot memories ahead of his certification as US election winner

It will be a bunch of historical oddities and awkward moments on Monday (Jan 6), when Donald Trump will be officially certified as the winner of the presidential election held on November 5, 2024.&nbsp;
This is the day when House of Representatives and Senate will hold a joint meeting for the certification process.
&nbsp;
<h2>What is odd about January 6 certification of Donald Trump's election as president?</h2>
The day will be awkward for Kamala Harris, the incumbent vice-president who was Trump's Democratic rival for presidency in November.
Because it is the vice president who signs off on the election certification, as per law.
But for Trump, it will be a sort of 'life comes full circle' moment.
Because the certification process is taking place at Capitol Hill, the very same place where a crowd, instigated by his denial of the election results of November 2020 that he lost, went on a rampage.&nbsp; Some of the Capitol riot cases are still ongoing&mdash;including those where Trump is an accused&mdash;and it would be interesting to see what he says on Monday.
<h2>What happens on election certification day?</h2>
As per the law, the US Congress meets to open, read aloud, and approve the sealed certificates from the states containing the electoral college votes, which are the ultimate deciders of US presidential elections.
The votes, kept in mahogany boxes meant only for this process, will be certified and approved at the joint sitting of the House and Senate.
In case there's any tie, then the House will vote again to break it, with each delegation representing the electoral college getting one vote. But such a tie hasn't happened in a couple of centuries.
The meeting is presided over by Harris in her role as president of the Senate.
She will eventually declare the winner, who this time happens to be the same person she fought vehemently on the campaign trail.
There is no scope for any election result denial or recount, as Trump has won a decisive 312 electoral college votes against 226 for Harris. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-slams-joe-biden-mourning-for-jimmy-carter-or-democrat-conspiracy-trump-criticises-biden-for-half-mast-flags-8592688" rel="dofollow">Mourning for Jimmy Carter or Democrat conspiracy? Trump slams Biden for half-mast flags</a>
<h2>Will there be scenes similar to 2021?</h2>
It is highly unlikely that the situation that had led to Capitol riot in 2021 will repeat this time.&nbsp;
During the riot, Trump supporters entered the chambers of Congress in a bid to physically stop the count of electoral votes that had declared Democrat Joe Biden, the current president, the winner. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nypd-veteran-convicted-of-assaulting-police-officer-during-capitol-riots-475866" rel="dofollow">NYPD veteran convicted of assaulting police officer during Capitol riots</a>
In any case, high security is in place in and around the Capitol Hill, coming as it does just days after the New Orleans terror attack on New Year's night.
&ldquo;There will be no violence. There will be no attempt to mount an insurrection against the Constitution,&rdquo; Associated Press news agency quoted Democratic representative Jamie Raskin as saying. &ldquo;It will be a lot more like what we&rsquo;ve seen for the rest of American history.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | Trending : January 6 holds significant historical importance as it will see both the certification of Donald Trump in the US election and the anniversary of the Capitol riot.

It will be a bunch of historical oddities and awkward moments on Monday (Jan 6), when Donald Trump will be officially certified as the winner of the presidential election held on November 5, 2024. This is the day when House of Representatives and Senate will hold a joint meeting for the certification process. What is odd about January 6 certification of Donald Trump's election as president? The day will be awkward for Kamala Harris, the incumbent vice-president who was Trump's Democratic rival for presidency in November. Because it is the vice president who signs off on the election certification, as per law. But for Trump, it will be a sort of 'life comes full circle' moment. Because the certification process is taking place at Capitol Hill, the very same place where a crowd, instigated by his denial of the election results of November 2020 that he lost, went on a rampage. Some of the Capitol riot cases are still ongoing—including those where Trump is an accused—and it would be interesting to see what he says on Monday. What happens on election certification day? As per the law, the US Congress meets to open, read aloud, and approve the sealed certificates from the states containing the electoral college votes, which are the ultimate deciders of US presidential elections. The votes, kept in mahogany boxes meant only for this process, will be certified and approved at the joint sitting of the House and Senate. In case there's any tie, then the House will vote again to break it, with each delegation representing the electoral college getting one vote. But such a tie hasn't happened in a couple of centuries. The meeting is presided over by Harris in her role as president of the Senate. She will eventually declare the winner, who this time happens to be the same person she fought vehemently on the campaign trail. There is no scope for any election result denial or recount, as Trump has won a decisive 312 electoral college votes against 226 for Harris. Also read: Mourning for Jimmy Carter or Democrat conspiracy? Trump slams Biden for half-mast flags Will there be scenes similar to 2021? It is highly unlikely that the situation that had led to Capitol riot in 2021 will repeat this time. During the riot, Trump supporters entered the chambers of Congress in a bid to physically stop the count of electoral votes that had declared Democrat Joe Biden, the current president, the winner. Also read: NYPD veteran convicted of assaulting police officer during Capitol riots In any case, high security is in place in and around the Capitol Hill, coming as it does just days after the New Orleans terror attack on New Year's night. “There will be no violence. There will be no attempt to mount an insurrection against the Constitution,” Associated Press news agency quoted Democratic representative Jamie Raskin as saying. “It will be a lot more like what we’ve seen for the rest of American history.” (With inputs from agencies)

On January 6 Capitol riot anniversary, Trump will be officially certified election winner

Donald Trump on Saturday (Jan 4) slammed US President Joe Biden's administration for its order to keep flags across the country at "half-mast" in mourning over the death of former president Jimmy Carter.
As it is customary, Biden has ordered that flags across the country remain at half-staff for 30 days, which means that the American flag will remain at half-mast when Trump takes office. The US flag code details half-staff procedures, notably including a 30-day period for deceased current or former presidents.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jimmy-carters-state-funeral-underway-us-bids-farewell-to-its-longest-living-former-president-8592228">Jimmy Carter state funeral: US bids farewell to its longest-living former president</a>
Expressing his ire, US President-elect Trump in a post on Truth Social insinuated that this was a conspiracy by Democrats and said that "no American can be happy about it". His post comes as the United States bids farewell to its 39th president, Jimmy Carter.
<h2>What Trump said</h2>
Trump on his social media platform alleged that Democrats were "all giddy" about "our magnificent American Flag potentially being at 'half-mast' during my Inauguration."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-decency-remark-on-trump-sparks-backlash-republicans-slam-his-unmitigated-gall-8580276">Biden's 'decency' remark on Trump sparks backlash, Republicans slam his 'unmitigated gall'</a>
Painting the mourning custom as something of a conspiracy by his predecessor, he alleged, "They think it&rsquo;s so great, and are so happy about it because, in actuality, they don&rsquo;t love our Country, they only think about themselves."
"Look at what they&rsquo;ve done to our once GREAT America over the past four years - It&rsquo;s a total mess!"
"In any event, because of the death of President Jimmy Carter, the Flag may, for the first time ever during an inauguration of a future President, be at half-mast. Nobody wants to see this, and no American can be happy about it. Let&rsquo;s see how it plays out," he added.
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113765847370756395/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jimmy-carter-former-us-president-and-nobel-laureate-dies-at-100-8576386" aria-label="Jimmy Carter, former US president, dies at 100: Life, legacy and more">Jimmy Carter, former US president, dies at 100: Life, legacy and more</a>
<h2>Jimmy Carter's state funeral</h2>
The state funeral of former United States president Jimmy Carter began on Saturday (Jan 4) in Georgia. The six-day farewell for the 39th President of the United States began with ceremonies in his home state. The US' longest-living president will lie in repose in Georgia before being flown to Washington, DC, on Tuesday (Jan 7). Carter passed away at the age of 100 in Plains, Georgia, on December 29.
(With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden has ordered that flags remain at half-staff for 30 days, which means that the American flag will remain at half-mast when Donald Trump takes office.

Donald Trump on Saturday (Jan 4) slammed US President Joe Biden's administration for its order to keep flags across the country at "half-mast" in mourning over the death of former president Jimmy Carter. As it is customary, Biden has ordered that flags across the country remain at half-staff for 30 days, which means that the American flag will remain at half-mast when Trump takes office. The US flag code details half-staff procedures, notably including a 30-day period for deceased current or former presidents. Also read | Jimmy Carter state funeral: US bids farewell to its longest-living former president Expressing his ire, US President-elect Trump in a post on Truth Social insinuated that this was a conspiracy by Democrats and said that "no American can be happy about it". His post comes as the United States bids farewell to its 39th president, Jimmy Carter. What Trump said Trump on his social media platform alleged that Democrats were "all giddy" about "our magnificent American Flag potentially being at 'half-mast' during my Inauguration." Also read | Biden's 'decency' remark on Trump sparks backlash, Republicans slam his 'unmitigated gall' Painting the mourning custom as something of a conspiracy by his predecessor, he alleged, "They think it’s so great, and are so happy about it because, in actuality, they don’t love our Country, they only think about themselves." "Look at what they’ve done to our once GREAT America over the past four years - It’s a total mess!" "In any event, because of the death of President Jimmy Carter, the Flag may, for the first time ever during an inauguration of a future President, be at half-mast. Nobody wants to see this, and no American can be happy about it. Let’s see how it plays out," he added. Also read | Jimmy Carter, former US president, dies at 100: Life, legacy and more Jimmy Carter's state funeral The state funeral of former United States president Jimmy Carter began on Saturday (Jan 4) in Georgia. The six-day farewell for the 39th President of the United States began with ceremonies in his home state. The US' longest-living president will lie in repose in Georgia before being flown to Washington, DC, on Tuesday (Jan 7). Carter passed away at the age of 100 in Plains, Georgia, on December 29. (With inputs from agencies)

Mourning for Jimmy Carter or Democrat conspiracy? Trump slams Biden for half-mast flags

An award-winning political cartoonist for The Washington Post has announced her resignation after a cartoon depicting the newspaper's billionaire owner grovelling before&nbsp;Donald Trump was rejected.
Ann Telnaes posted on Substack late Friday that this was the first time she "had a cartoon killed because of who or what I chose to aim my pen at."
The cartoon -- which she included in her post -- depicts Amazon founder and Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos, as well as Facebook and Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg and other media and tech moguls, kneeling and holding up bags of money before a massive Trump.
Also read |&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/willing-to-surrender-in-gaza-trumps-alleged-shooter-routh-wishes-to-become-hamas-hostage-in-shocking-letter-8591955" aria-label="'Willing to surrender in Gaza,' Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter">'Willing to surrender in Gaza,' Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter</a>
Also shown is a prostrated Mickey Mouse, the symbol of the Disney Company, which owns ABC News. The television network recently reached a $15 million settlement with Trump after he sued for defamation over reporting on his sexual abuse trial in New York.
Telnaes wrote that while previous sketches of hers had been rejected, this was the first time that had happened because of her "point of view."
"That's a game changer... and dangerous for a free press," she said.
The Washington Post, whose slogan is "Democracy dies in darkness," did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
US media quoted the opinions editor, David Shipley, saying that Telnaes's work had been rejected only because of "repetition."
"We had just published a column on the same topic as the cartoon and had already scheduled another column -- this one a satire -- for publication," he said.
The US media aggressively covered Trump's chaotic first term, which included two impeachments and ended with his refusal to recognize defeat in the 2020 election -- culminating with a mob of his supporters storming Congress.
As Trump prepares for his January 20 inauguration, after having defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in November, there are signs that top CEOs, including in the media, are eager to build good relations.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-releases-footage-claiming-to-show-troops-inside-area-used-as-hideout-by-hamas-8591638" aria-label="IDF releases footage claiming to show troops inside area used as 'hideout' by Hamas">IDF releases footage claiming to show troops inside area used as 'hideout' by Hamas</a>
A stream of senior moguls, from Apple CEO Tim Cook to Bezos Zuckerberg, have travelled to meet Trump at his Florida estate.
Elon Musk, owner of influential social media platform X and the world's richest person, is one of the president-elect's closest advisors.
Amazon and Meta have both announced $1 million donations to Trump's inauguration fund, as reportedly has Apple's Cook in a personal capacity.
Bezos caused a stir just ahead of the presidential election when he broke with years of tradition and ruled against the Post endorsing a candidate.
Telnaes, who has won the Pulitzer Prize and other awards for her work, has worked for the Post since 2008.
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Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed&nbsp;to better reflect the content of the story&nbsp;or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.
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Ann Telnaes posted on Substack late Friday that this was the first time she "had a cartoon killed because of who or what I chose to aim my pen at."

An award-winning political cartoonist for The Washington Post has announced her resignation after a cartoon depicting the newspaper's billionaire owner grovelling before Donald Trump was rejected. Ann Telnaes posted on Substack late Friday that this was the first time she "had a cartoon killed because of who or what I chose to aim my pen at." The cartoon -- which she included in her post -- depicts Amazon founder and Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos, as well as Facebook and Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg and other media and tech moguls, kneeling and holding up bags of money before a massive Trump. Also read | 'Willing to surrender in Gaza,' Trump's alleged shooter Routh wishes to become Hamas hostage in shocking letter Also shown is a prostrated Mickey Mouse, the symbol of the Disney Company, which owns ABC News. The television network recently reached a $15 million settlement with Trump after he sued for defamation over reporting on his sexual abuse trial in New York. Telnaes wrote that while previous sketches of hers had been rejected, this was the first time that had happened because of her "point of view." "That's a game changer... and dangerous for a free press," she said. The Washington Post, whose slogan is "Democracy dies in darkness," did not immediately respond to a request for comment. US media quoted the opinions editor, David Shipley, saying that Telnaes's work had been rejected only because of "repetition." "We had just published a column on the same topic as the cartoon and had already scheduled another column -- this one a satire -- for publication," he said. The US media aggressively covered Trump's chaotic first term, which included two impeachments and ended with his refusal to recognize defeat in the 2020 election -- culminating with a mob of his supporters storming Congress. As Trump prepares for his January 20 inauguration, after having defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in November, there are signs that top CEOs, including in the media, are eager to build good relations. Also read | IDF releases footage claiming to show troops inside area used as 'hideout' by Hamas A stream of senior moguls, from Apple CEO Tim Cook to Bezos Zuckerberg, have travelled to meet Trump at his Florida estate. Elon Musk, owner of influential social media platform X and the world's richest person, is one of the president-elect's closest advisors. Amazon and Meta have both announced $1 million donations to Trump's inauguration fund, as reportedly has Apple's Cook in a personal capacity. Bezos caused a stir just ahead of the presidential election when he broke with years of tradition and ruled against the Post endorsing a candidate. Telnaes, who has won the Pulitzer Prize and other awards for her work, has worked for the Post since 2008. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cartoonist quits Washington Post after it rejected sketch mocking Jeff Bezos and Trump

Tim Cook, CEO of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/apples-foreign-phone-sales-sink-for-4th-mth">Apple</a>, is personally donating $1 million to the inauguration fund of United States President-elect Donald Trump, according to a report by Axios. The Republican leader is set to be sworn in on 20 January.
Axios, citing sources, reported that Cook sees the inauguration as a key American tradition and is contributing "in the spirit of unity." The donation is being made in a personal capacity, with Apple itself not expected to provide any financial support.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-urges-us-supreme-court-to-pause-tiktok-ban-ahead-of-january-inauguration-8571960">Trump urges US Supreme Court to pause TikTok ban ahead of inauguration</a>
Cook&rsquo;s contribution is part of a wider trend of many financial donations and support for Trump&rsquo;s inaugural committee. Companies like Amazon, OpenAI have also made contributions.&nbsp;
<h2>Automotive sector, Wall Street and cryptocurrency platforms among major donors</h2>
In addition to tech leaders, the automotive sector has shown significant support, with Toyota pledging $1 million. This comes after similar donations from Ford and General Motors. Wall Street has also joined in, with firms like Goldman Sachs and Bank of America among the major donors. Cryptocurrency platforms such as Kraken and Coinbase have also made notable donations.
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-bezos-to-zuckerberg-top-us-ceos-line-up-to-embrace-trump-who-once-they-ditched-783987" aria-label="From Bezos to Zuckerberg, top US CEOs line up to embrace Trump who once they ditched">From Bezos to Zuckerberg, top US CEOs line up to embrace Trump who once they ditched</a>
<h2>Trump- Cook meeting at Mar-a-Lago</h2>
On 13 December, Donald Trump hosted Tim Cook for dinner at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, as reported by the Associated Press.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-to-pay-95-million-for-lawsuit-against-siri-for-listening-users-private-conversation-8588579">Apple to pay $95 million for lawsuit against Siri for listening user's private conversation</a>
Trump had mentioned in October last year that Cook had reached out to him regarding concerns over Apple&rsquo;s legal and financial challenges in Europe. Apple recently lost its final appeal in a European Union dispute, resulting in the company owing &euro;13 billion ($14.34 billion) in back taxes to Ireland.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: In addition to tech leaders, the automotive sector has shown significant support, with Toyota pledging $1 million. This comes after similar donations from Ford and General Motors.

Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, is personally donating $1 million to the inauguration fund of United States President-elect Donald Trump, according to a report by Axios. The Republican leader is set to be sworn in on 20 January. Axios, citing sources, reported that Cook sees the inauguration as a key American tradition and is contributing "in the spirit of unity." The donation is being made in a personal capacity, with Apple itself not expected to provide any financial support. Also read: Trump urges US Supreme Court to pause TikTok ban ahead of inauguration Cook’s contribution is part of a wider trend of many financial donations and support for Trump’s inaugural committee. Companies like Amazon, OpenAI have also made contributions. Automotive sector, Wall Street and cryptocurrency platforms among major donors In addition to tech leaders, the automotive sector has shown significant support, with Toyota pledging $1 million. This comes after similar donations from Ford and General Motors. Wall Street has also joined in, with firms like Goldman Sachs and Bank of America among the major donors. Cryptocurrency platforms such as Kraken and Coinbase have also made notable donations. Also read: From Bezos to Zuckerberg, top US CEOs line up to embrace Trump who once they ditched Trump- Cook meeting at Mar-a-Lago On 13 December, Donald Trump hosted Tim Cook for dinner at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, as reported by the Associated Press. Also read: Apple to pay $95 million for lawsuit against Siri for listening user's private conversation Trump had mentioned in October last year that Cook had reached out to him regarding concerns over Apple’s legal and financial challenges in Europe. Apple recently lost its final appeal in a European Union dispute, resulting in the company owing €13 billion ($14.34 billion) in back taxes to Ireland. (With inputs from agencies)

‘In the spirit of unity’: Apple CEO Tim Cook to reportedly donate $1M to Trump’s inauguration fund

House Speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=mike+johnson" rel="dofollow">Mike Johnson </a>on Friday (Jan 3) faces a key moment as he fights to retain his position as the US House begins the new session with a speaker vote.&nbsp;
Johnson, who was endorsed by US President-elect Donald Trump, is confronting tough vote math with the narrowest House majority in nearly 100 years.&nbsp;
Earlier in the day, Trump expressed support for Johnson, saying that he is a good and hard-working man.&nbsp;
He further stressed that a win for Mike today will be a big win for the whole party.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-endorses-mike-johnson-ahead-of-speaker-election-8578957" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump endorses Mike Johnson ahead of Speaker election</a>
"Speaker Mike Johnson is a good, hard working, religious man. He will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN. Mike has my Complete &amp; Total Endorsement. MAGA!!!" Trump wrote in a social media post on Monday.
"A win for Mike today will be a big win for the Republican Party, and yet another acknowledgment of our 129-year most consequential Presidential Election," he added.&nbsp;
Johnson immediately responded on X, saying that, he is "honored and humbled" to receive Trump's support.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breach-of-protocol-mike-johnson-shields-trumps-attorney-general-pick-matt-gaetz-from-ethics-report-776916" rel="dofollow">'Breach of protocol,' Mike Johnson shields Trump's attorney general pick, Matt Gaetz from ethics report</a>
Notably, the new Congress begins today, January 3, and Republicans will be in the majority.
Today, if every lawmaker shows up and votes, Mike Johnson can afford to lose only one GOP vote then.&nbsp;
Moreover, Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky has already said he won&rsquo;t vote for him, while roughly a dozen more have not committed to supporting him.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mike-johnson-trump-nominates-republican-congressman-for-another-term-as-house-speaker-776065" rel="dofollow">Who is Mike Johnson? Trump nominates Republican Congressman for another term as House Speaker</a>
<h2>How is a speaker chosen?&nbsp;</h2>
The House of Representatives functions on a two-year cycle, which is known as a "session".&nbsp;
As the new Congress begins today, the first thing to be done in a new session of the House of Representatives is to vote for a Speaker of the House. Without the speaker, the chamber cannot move further.
Moreover, the chamber continues to hold votes until a Speaker is elected.&nbsp;
The vote for a Speaker requires a candidate to receive &nbsp;the support of a majority of the House, i.e. 218 votes. But as with most things in politics, it&rsquo;s not always that simple.
In the case of a member being absent on either the Democrats or Republicans, it can change the number of votes needed.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Johnson, who was endorsed by US President-elect Donald Trump, is confronting tough vote math with the narrowest House majority in nearly 100 years. 

House Speaker Mike Johnson on Friday (Jan 3) faces a key moment as he fights to retain his position as the US House begins the new session with a speaker vote. Johnson, who was endorsed by US President-elect Donald Trump, is confronting tough vote math with the narrowest House majority in nearly 100 years. Earlier in the day, Trump expressed support for Johnson, saying that he is a good and hard-working man. He further stressed that a win for Mike today will be a big win for the whole party. Also read: Donald Trump endorses Mike Johnson ahead of Speaker election "Speaker Mike Johnson is a good, hard working, religious man. He will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN. Mike has my Complete & Total Endorsement. MAGA!!!" Trump wrote in a social media post on Monday. "A win for Mike today will be a big win for the Republican Party, and yet another acknowledgment of our 129-year most consequential Presidential Election," he added. Johnson immediately responded on X, saying that, he is "honored and humbled" to receive Trump's support. Also read: 'Breach of protocol,' Mike Johnson shields Trump's attorney general pick, Matt Gaetz from ethics report Notably, the new Congress begins today, January 3, and Republicans will be in the majority. Today, if every lawmaker shows up and votes, Mike Johnson can afford to lose only one GOP vote then. Moreover, Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky has already said he won’t vote for him, while roughly a dozen more have not committed to supporting him. Also read: Who is Mike Johnson? Trump nominates Republican Congressman for another term as House Speaker How is a speaker chosen? The House of Representatives functions on a two-year cycle, which is known as a "session". As the new Congress begins today, the first thing to be done in a new session of the House of Representatives is to vote for a Speaker of the House. Without the speaker, the chamber cannot move further. Moreover, the chamber continues to hold votes until a Speaker is elected. The vote for a Speaker requires a candidate to receive the support of a majority of the House, i.e. 218 votes. But as with most things in politics, it’s not always that simple. In the case of a member being absent on either the Democrats or Republicans, it can change the number of votes needed. (With inputs from agencies)

'Win for Mike, will be big win for party,' Trump endorses Johnson for Speaker as he faces crucial vote

Matthew Livelsberger, a native of Colorado Springs, has been identified as the suspect in the Tesla <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=cybertruck+" rel="dofollow">Cybertruck explosion</a> that happened outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Thursday (Jan 2).&nbsp;
He has been identified as the driver whose Cybertruck exploded, according to NBC affiliate KOAA News5.&nbsp;
Livelsberger was 37 years old and had several Colorado Springs addresses associated with him, the publication stated.&nbsp;
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) searched a townhouse complex, the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) stated. The block is located on the east side of Colorado Springs in the Stetson Hills neighborhood.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-turo-the-car-sharing-app-used-in-new-orleans-attack-and-cybertruck-blast-in-las-vegas-8585327" rel="dofollow">What is Turo, the car-sharing app used in New Orleans attack and cybertruck blast in Las Vegas?</a>
The FBI reached one of the addresses mentioned. However, he has not been identified by the officers yet.&nbsp;
<h2>Know about the incident</h2>
A Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside US President-elect Donald Trump's hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday (Jan 1). Meanwhile, at least seven bystanders suffered minor injuries.&nbsp;
The electric car arrived at the Trump International Hotel's glass entrance moments before it burst into flames. The authorities are investigating the incident as a possible act of terror.
Moreover, Turo, a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform based in San Francisco, is under scrutiny following two fatal incidents involving vehicles rented through the service.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-turo-the-car-sharing-app-used-in-new-orleans-attack-and-cybertruck-blast-in-las-vegas-8585327" rel="dofollow">US Army veteran named prime suspect in Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside Trump hotel: Report</a>
According to the authorities, vehicles involved in a deadly attack in New Orleans and an explosion in Las Vegas were rented via Turo.&nbsp;
Tesla CEO Elon Musk said on Wednesday (Jan 1) that both Cybertruck and F-150 suicide bomb incidents seem to be linked and look like acts of terrorism.
He also said that both vehicles involved in the Las Vegas and New Orleans attacks were rented from the same app, which creates speculation that the incidents are linked.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-cybertruck-explodes-outside-trump-hotel-in-las-vegas-8584099" rel="dofollow">Tesla Cybertruck explodes outside Trump hotel in Las Vegas, incident being probed as possible terror act</a>
&ldquo;Appears likely to be an act of terrorism. Both this Cybertruck and the F-150 suicide bomb in New Orleans were rented from Turo. Perhaps they are linked in some way,&rdquo; Musk wrote in a post on X.
In another post, Musk stated, "Evil knuckleheads picked the wrong vehicle for a terrorist attack," adding, "Cybertruck actually contained the explosion and directed the blast upwards. Not even the glass doors of the lobby were broken."
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Trending: Livelsberger was 37 years old and has been identified as the driver of the Cybertruck that exploded. He had several Colorado Springs addresses associated with him. 

Matthew Livelsberger, a native of Colorado Springs, has been identified as the suspect in the Tesla Cybertruck explosion that happened outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Thursday (Jan 2). He has been identified as the driver whose Cybertruck exploded, according to NBC affiliate KOAA News5. Livelsberger was 37 years old and had several Colorado Springs addresses associated with him, the publication stated. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) searched a townhouse complex, the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) stated. The block is located on the east side of Colorado Springs in the Stetson Hills neighborhood. Also read: What is Turo, the car-sharing app used in New Orleans attack and cybertruck blast in Las Vegas? The FBI reached one of the addresses mentioned. However, he has not been identified by the officers yet. Know about the incident A Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside US President-elect Donald Trump's hotel in Las Vegas on Wednesday (Jan 1). Meanwhile, at least seven bystanders suffered minor injuries. The electric car arrived at the Trump International Hotel's glass entrance moments before it burst into flames. The authorities are investigating the incident as a possible act of terror. Moreover, Turo, a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform based in San Francisco, is under scrutiny following two fatal incidents involving vehicles rented through the service. Also read: US Army veteran named prime suspect in Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside Trump hotel: Report According to the authorities, vehicles involved in a deadly attack in New Orleans and an explosion in Las Vegas were rented via Turo. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said on Wednesday (Jan 1) that both Cybertruck and F-150 suicide bomb incidents seem to be linked and look like acts of terrorism. He also said that both vehicles involved in the Las Vegas and New Orleans attacks were rented from the same app, which creates speculation that the incidents are linked. Also read: Tesla Cybertruck explodes outside Trump hotel in Las Vegas, incident being probed as possible terror act “Appears likely to be an act of terrorism. Both this Cybertruck and the F-150 suicide bomb in New Orleans were rented from Turo. Perhaps they are linked in some way,” Musk wrote in a post on X. In another post, Musk stated, "Evil knuckleheads picked the wrong vehicle for a terrorist attack," adding, "Cybertruck actually contained the explosion and directed the blast upwards. Not even the glass doors of the lobby were broken." (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Matthew Livelsberger, suspect in cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas?

Chinese hackers, backed by the government, targeted US Treasury office, the Office of Foreign Assets Control and the Office of Financial Research in a major cyberattack earlier this week, reported the Washington Post. The attack was first revealed by the Treasury earlier this week but it had refused to identify the targets. The office of US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen was also reportedly targeted by Beijing-controlled hackers.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/you-are-under-digital-arrest-the-2024-cyber-scam-that-shook-india-8581607">'You are under digital arrest': The cyber scam that shook India in 2024</a>
Earlier this week, the Treasure Department revealed in a letter to lawmakers that the Chinese hackers had stolen unclassified documents in a "major incident", a claim strongly refuted by the Chinese government.
<h2>Response from China</h2>
Reacting to the Washington Post&rsquo;s report, Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, said the allegations were &lsquo;irrational&rsquo; and without &lsquo;any factual basis&rsquo;.
Pengyu said the accusations represented "smear attacks" against the Chinese government. The statement added that Beijing combated &ldquo;all forms of cy<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/internet-sites-in-several-french-cities-targeted-by-cyber-attacks-8581779">Internet sites of several French cities targeted by cyber attacks</a>berattacks", without directly addressing claims made in the Washington Post report.
<h2>China worried over sanctions?</h2>
According to officials quoted by the Post, Chinese government is anxious about potential sanctions and financial restrictions that may be imposed by the US government in coming months.
Notably, the US Treasury Office administers economic sanctions on foreign entities, including the Chinese ones.
Chinese firms often find themselves in the crosshairs of US sanctions, something that policymakers in Washington DC use as a major foreign policy tool. The incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump has also vowed to increase tariffs on products from China.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/internet-sites-in-several-french-cities-targeted-by-cyber-attacks-8581779">Internet sites of several French cities targeted by cyber attacks</a>
Even the outgoing administration of President Joe Biden has signalled more sanctions on Chinese banks for their alleged role in supporting sanctioned Russian banks in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war. Yellen was quoted by news agency Reuters as saying that American sanctions on Chinese banks would be aimed at reducing Russia's oil revenue and hindering its access to foreign supplies that it may use to fuel its war in Ukraine.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Reacting to Washington Post’s report, Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, said the allegations were ‘irrational’ and without ‘any factual basis’

Chinese hackers, backed by the government, targeted US Treasury office, the Office of Foreign Assets Control and the Office of Financial Research in a major cyberattack earlier this week, reported the Washington Post. The attack was first revealed by the Treasury earlier this week but it had refused to identify the targets. The office of US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen was also reportedly targeted by Beijing-controlled hackers. Also read: 'You are under digital arrest': The cyber scam that shook India in 2024 Earlier this week, the Treasure Department revealed in a letter to lawmakers that the Chinese hackers had stolen unclassified documents in a "major incident", a claim strongly refuted by the Chinese government. Response from China Reacting to the Washington Post’s report, Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, said the allegations were ‘irrational’ and without ‘any factual basis’. Pengyu said the accusations represented "smear attacks" against the Chinese government. The statement added that Beijing combated “all forms of cyInternet sites of several French cities targeted by cyber attacksberattacks", without directly addressing claims made in the Washington Post report. China worried over sanctions? According to officials quoted by the Post, Chinese government is anxious about potential sanctions and financial restrictions that may be imposed by the US government in coming months. Notably, the US Treasury Office administers economic sanctions on foreign entities, including the Chinese ones. Chinese firms often find themselves in the crosshairs of US sanctions, something that policymakers in Washington DC use as a major foreign policy tool. The incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump has also vowed to increase tariffs on products from China. Also read: Internet sites of several French cities targeted by cyber attacks Even the outgoing administration of President Joe Biden has signalled more sanctions on Chinese banks for their alleged role in supporting sanctioned Russian banks in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war. Yellen was quoted by news agency Reuters as saying that American sanctions on Chinese banks would be aimed at reducing Russia's oil revenue and hindering its access to foreign supplies that it may use to fuel its war in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of Trump 2.0, Chinese hackers attack US agency that administers financial sanctions: Report

US President-elect Donald Trump linked the deadly truck attack in New Orleans on Wednesday (January 1) to illegal immigration, an issue he raised repeatedly during his election campaign.
In a post on his social media platform, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-elon-musk-his-son-x-celebrate-new-years-eve-with-trump-at-mar-a-lago-8583331">Truth Social</a>, Trump suggested that the suspect, whose identity has not yet been revealed, was not a US citizen. However, this claim has not been confirmed by law authorities. "When I said that the criminals coming in are far worse than the criminals we have in our country, that statement was constantly refuted by Democrats and the Fake News Media, but it turned out to be true," Trump wrote. The police have not disclosed the nationality or identity of the attacker.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-car-plows-into-new-years-crowd-in-new-orleans-killing-at-least-10-8583174">New Orleans attack: 10 killed as man ploughs truck into New Year crowd; suspect shot dead</a>
"The crime rate in our country is at a level that nobody has ever seen before. Our hearts are with all of the innocent victims and their loved ones, including the brave officers of the New Orleans Police Department. The Trump Administration will fully support the City of New Orleans as they investigate and recover from this act of pure evil," he added.
Meanwhile, President Joe Biden also condemned the violence, saying, "There is no justification for violence of any kind, and we will not tolerate any attack on any of our nation's communities."
<h2>What happened in New Orleans?</h2>
Police reported that a man ploughed his pickup truck through a crowd on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-orleans-new-years-day-attack-suspect-in-new-orleans-attack-found-dead-8583532">Bourbon Street</a> around 3:15 am on Wednesday. The incident resulted in the deaths of 10 people, while 35 others were injured.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-we-know-so-far-about-new-years-day-attack-in-new-orleans-8583494">What we know so far about New Year&rsquo;s day attack in New Orleans</a>
Police Commissioner Anne Kirkpatrick described the driver "hell-bent on creating the carnage and the damage that he did," adding that the driver attempted to "run over as many people as he could." Two police officers were also shot by the driver, but they are now in stable condition.
The FBI confirmed that the suspect died after engaging in a firefight with the police. Once the truck came to a stop, the suspect reportedly opened fire on officers, who returned fire. Further details about the suspect's identity have not been released. (With inputs from agencies)

World, Trending: In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump suggested that the suspect, whose identity has not yet been revealed, was not a US citizen. However, this claim has not been confirmed by law authorities.

US President-elect Donald Trump linked the deadly truck attack in New Orleans on Wednesday (January 1) to illegal immigration, an issue he raised repeatedly during his election campaign. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump suggested that the suspect, whose identity has not yet been revealed, was not a US citizen. However, this claim has not been confirmed by law authorities. "When I said that the criminals coming in are far worse than the criminals we have in our country, that statement was constantly refuted by Democrats and the Fake News Media, but it turned out to be true," Trump wrote. The police have not disclosed the nationality or identity of the attacker. Also read: New Orleans attack: 10 killed as man ploughs truck into New Year crowd; suspect shot dead "The crime rate in our country is at a level that nobody has ever seen before. Our hearts are with all of the innocent victims and their loved ones, including the brave officers of the New Orleans Police Department. The Trump Administration will fully support the City of New Orleans as they investigate and recover from this act of pure evil," he added. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden also condemned the violence, saying, "There is no justification for violence of any kind, and we will not tolerate any attack on any of our nation's communities." What happened in New Orleans? Police reported that a man ploughed his pickup truck through a crowd on Bourbon Street around 3:15 am on Wednesday. The incident resulted in the deaths of 10 people, while 35 others were injured. Also read: What we know so far about New Year’s day attack in New Orleans Police Commissioner Anne Kirkpatrick described the driver "hell-bent on creating the carnage and the damage that he did," adding that the driver attempted to "run over as many people as he could." Two police officers were also shot by the driver, but they are now in stable condition. The FBI confirmed that the suspect died after engaging in a firefight with the police. Once the truck came to a stop, the suspect reportedly opened fire on officers, who returned fire. Further details about the suspect's identity have not been released. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Act of pure evil,’ Trump links deadly New Orleans truck attack to illegal immigration

Donald Trump and Elon Musk are getting too close to each other. A New York Times report said the SpaceX CEO is living in a cottage a few hundred feet away from the US president-elect&rsquo;s main Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. The cottage Musk has rented is named Banyan and is on the grounds of Trump's Florida estate.
The NYT report, quoting sources, suggests that the cottage costs at least $2,000 per night.
Experts have been concerned about Musk's growing influence on Trump, as he has been part of some personnel meetings and has even attended talks with foreign leaders. Musk even helped tank a bipartisan spending bill in Congress.
The cottage Musk is staying in is one of many that have been used by others in Trump&rsquo;s inner circle.
Vice President-elect JD Vance also stayed here during the transition period.
As per the NYT report, Musk moved into the cottage around Election Day and was residing here when Trump and others watched the results at Mar-a-Lago. He is also reported to have made meal requests at odd hours.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-says-ufos-in-us-skies-are-not-alien-spacecraft-but-are-actually-secret-765992" rel="dofollow">Musk says UFOs in US skies are not alien spacecraft but are actually secret...</a>
His physical proximity to Trump has led him to drop in anytime. This happened when the president-elect was having dinner with Musk&rsquo;s rival, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.
<h2>Musk at Florida cottage</h2>
He is currently not at the cottage and is said to have left around Christmas and is expected to return in the New Year. Billing details and other financial transactions regarding the stay are not known, although what Musk ends up paying might depend on Trump.
The president-elect has been quite vocal about his bromance with Musk. In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump appeared to have asked Musk about his return to Mar-a-Lago, adding that Bill Gates also wants to visit the estate.
&ldquo;Where are you? When are you coming to the &lsquo;Center of the Universe,&rsquo; Mar-a-Lago. Bill Gates asked to come, tonight. We miss you and x! New Year&rsquo;s Eve is going to be AMAZING!!!&rdquo; Trump wrote, signing it "DJT."
X evidently refers to Musk's son X &AElig; A-Xii who was at the Florida estate on Thanksgiving as well.&nbsp;
<h2>Musk and Trump campaign</h2>
Musk spent more than a quarter of a billion dollars on Trump's campaign in the final months and even attended his rallies. He has reportedly been wielding power when it comes to choosing people for senior administration jobs, with his employees being part of interviews at the Trump transition headquarters in West Palm Beach.

Elon Musk is camping a few hundred feet away from Donald Trump's main residence in a cottage that costs at least $2,000 per night. 

Donald Trump and Elon Musk are getting too close to each other. A New York Times report said the SpaceX CEO is living in a cottage a few hundred feet away from the US president-elect’s main Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. The cottage Musk has rented is named Banyan and is on the grounds of Trump's Florida estate. The NYT report, quoting sources, suggests that the cottage costs at least $2,000 per night. Experts have been concerned about Musk's growing influence on Trump, as he has been part of some personnel meetings and has even attended talks with foreign leaders. Musk even helped tank a bipartisan spending bill in Congress. The cottage Musk is staying in is one of many that have been used by others in Trump’s inner circle. Vice President-elect JD Vance also stayed here during the transition period. As per the NYT report, Musk moved into the cottage around Election Day and was residing here when Trump and others watched the results at Mar-a-Lago. He is also reported to have made meal requests at odd hours. Also Read: Musk says UFOs in US skies are not alien spacecraft but are actually secret... His physical proximity to Trump has led him to drop in anytime. This happened when the president-elect was having dinner with Musk’s rival, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Musk at Florida cottage He is currently not at the cottage and is said to have left around Christmas and is expected to return in the New Year. Billing details and other financial transactions regarding the stay are not known, although what Musk ends up paying might depend on Trump. The president-elect has been quite vocal about his bromance with Musk. In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump appeared to have asked Musk about his return to Mar-a-Lago, adding that Bill Gates also wants to visit the estate. “Where are you? When are you coming to the ‘Center of the Universe,’ Mar-a-Lago. Bill Gates asked to come, tonight. We miss you and x! New Year’s Eve is going to be AMAZING!!!” Trump wrote, signing it "DJT." X evidently refers to Musk's son X Æ A-Xii who was at the Florida estate on Thanksgiving as well. Musk and Trump campaign Musk spent more than a quarter of a billion dollars on Trump's campaign in the final months and even attended his rallies. He has reportedly been wielding power when it comes to choosing people for senior administration jobs, with his employees being part of interviews at the Trump transition headquarters in West Palm Beach.

Musk is living in a lavish cottage only a few feet away from Trump

A federal appeals court upheld a $5 million verdict on Monday (December 30) in favour of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sues-des-moines-register-and-top-pollster-vows-more-lawsuits-against-them-784795">E. Jean Carroll</a>, a former magazine columnist, in her case against US President-elect Donald Trump.&nbsp;
A jury had previously found Trump liable for sexually abusing and defaming Carroll, and the appeals court rejected Trump&rsquo;s request for a new trial just weeks before he is set to retake office.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/abc-news-settles-defamation-lawsuit-with-donald-trump-agrees-to-pay16mn-784060">ABC News settles defamation lawsuit with Donald Trump, agrees to pay $15mn</a>
The Second Circuit Court of Appeals said that Trump&rsquo;s legal team failed to show any errors in the district court's rulings or present sufficient grounds to justify a new trial. 
&ldquo;We conclude that Mr. Trump has not demonstrated that the district court erred in any of the challenged rulings. Further, he has not carried his burden to show that any claimed error or combination of claimed errors affected his substantial rights as required to warrant a new trial,&rdquo; the court said in its ruling.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-accuses-elon-musk-of-trying-to-influence-elections-with-afd-endorsements-8578786">Germany accuses Elon Musk of 'trying to influence' elections with AfD endorsements</a>
Trump&rsquo;s lawyers argued that the district court had allowed "inflammatory" evidence, including the 2005 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-trumps-deposition-video-in-e-jean-carrolls-rape-lawsuit-made-public-589441">Access Hollywood tape</a>, in which Trump&nbsp;was heard saying that &ldquo;when you&rsquo;re a star,&rdquo; &ldquo;you can do anything,&rdquo; such as grabbing women &ldquo;by the pussy.&rdquo; They also objected to testimony from two other women&mdash;Jessica Leeds, who claimed Trump groped her on a plane in the 1970s, and Natasha Stoynoff, who alleged Trump forcibly kissed her at Mar-a-Lago in 2005.
<h2>Trump vs. E. Jean Carroll case</h2>
In 2023, a jury awarded Carroll $2.02 million for sexual assault and $2.98 million for defamation after finding Trump liable for sexually abusing her in the 1990s and then defaming her when she went public with her accusations. However, the jury did not find Trump guilty of rape.
Separately, in January 2024, another jury ordered Trump to pay Carroll $83.3 million for defamation after concluding that his denial of her allegations in 2019 harmed her reputation. Trump had dismissed Carroll's claims, saying he did not know her, she was "not my type," and that she made up the allegations to promote her memoir.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News: In 2023, a jury awarded E. Jean Carroll $2.02 million for sexual assault and $2.98 million for defamation after finding Trump liable for sexually abusing her in the 1990s and then defaming her.

A federal appeals court upheld a $5 million verdict on Monday (December 30) in favour of E. Jean Carroll, a former magazine columnist, in her case against US President-elect Donald Trump. A jury had previously found Trump liable for sexually abusing and defaming Carroll, and the appeals court rejected Trump’s request for a new trial just weeks before he is set to retake office. Also read: ABC News settles defamation lawsuit with Donald Trump, agrees to pay $15mn The Second Circuit Court of Appeals said that Trump’s legal team failed to show any errors in the district court's rulings or present sufficient grounds to justify a new trial. “We conclude that Mr. Trump has not demonstrated that the district court erred in any of the challenged rulings. Further, he has not carried his burden to show that any claimed error or combination of claimed errors affected his substantial rights as required to warrant a new trial,” the court said in its ruling. Also read: Germany accuses Elon Musk of 'trying to influence' elections with AfD endorsements Trump’s lawyers argued that the district court had allowed "inflammatory" evidence, including the 2005 Access Hollywood tape, in which Trump was heard saying that “when you’re a star,” “you can do anything,” such as grabbing women “by the pussy.” They also objected to testimony from two other women—Jessica Leeds, who claimed Trump groped her on a plane in the 1970s, and Natasha Stoynoff, who alleged Trump forcibly kissed her at Mar-a-Lago in 2005. Trump vs. E. Jean Carroll case In 2023, a jury awarded Carroll $2.02 million for sexual assault and $2.98 million for defamation after finding Trump liable for sexually abusing her in the 1990s and then defaming her when she went public with her accusations. However, the jury did not find Trump guilty of rape. Separately, in January 2024, another jury ordered Trump to pay Carroll $83.3 million for defamation after concluding that his denial of her allegations in 2019 harmed her reputation. Trump had dismissed Carroll's claims, saying he did not know her, she was "not my type," and that she made up the allegations to promote her memoir. (With inputs from agencies)

Court rejects Trump’s bid for new trial in E. Jean Carroll sexual abuse, defamation case

Unless you had been living under the rock, or in a bunker with no Wi-Fi, there's no way you didn't catch the wind of the ever-evolving meme game. &nbsp; From TikTok trends and Olympics swag to absurdities leading up to the US election, 2024 proved that memes remain the lifeblood of internet culture, perfectly summing up our chaotic lives. &nbsp; Humour, creativity, and pop culture came together to capture moments that were as entertaining as they were reflective of our shared experiences. &nbsp; While a few memes poked fun at renowned personalities for their unsolicited suggestions, some celebrated the everyday struggles, uniting millions in laughter and commentary.
<h2>Here's a look at the top 11 memes that defined 2024, in no particular order:</h2>
1. "Very Demure, Very Mindful" &nbsp; This meme took off from a beauty influencer's 40-second TikTok video where she described her makeup routine as "very demure, very mindful", highlighting a point about modest self-presentation.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
you see how he sits on his throne? very demure, very mindful, very fancy <a href="https://t.co/O91EOmTvMD">pic.twitter.com/O91EOmTvMD</a>
&mdash; Josh RR Jokien (@joshcarlosjosh) <a href="https://twitter.com/joshcarlosjosh/status/1824553322889744833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Jools Lebron's video, however, turned into a humourous commentary on the pressures of appearance in the digital age, triggering countless variations and parodies.
2. Look Between X and Y on Your Keyboard &nbsp; This social media trend had users asking others to "look between" specific letters on their keyboards, revealing hidden messages.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
If you look at your keyboard while driving, the thing between Q and R will meet you with a challan.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoadSafety?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoadSafety</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/dtptraffic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dtptraffic</a>
&mdash; Delhi Police (@DelhiPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiPolice/status/1782756981633339804?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
&nbsp;For instance, looking between 'H' and 'L' reveals 'JK', meaning "just kidding". This trend gained traction across various platforms, with brands and individuals creating their own versions.
3. 'Hawk Tuah' &nbsp; The 'Hawk Tuah' meme soared sometime in July, with the phrase &mdash; the distinctive sound of a vigorous spitting action during oral sex &mdash; becoming an internet meme thanks to a 22-year-old American woman's animated, but innocuous, response to a question about one move in bed that 'makes a man go crazy every time'.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hawk Tuah - The original interview that started it all <a href="https://t.co/QiDfnmXjye">pic.twitter.com/QiDfnmXjye</a>
&mdash; The Postman (@officalpostman) <a href="https://twitter.com/officalpostman/status/1804317724975431843?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2024</a></blockquote>

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 &nbsp;Although the woman regretted the action on camera shortly after, the internet latched on to the moment and turned it into a viral meme. Last we checked, she had a new podcast show titled &lsquo;Talk Tuah'.
4. Chill Guy &nbsp; If you've been browsing social media recently, we bet you've come across this character of an anamorphic dog, with its hands tucked in its pockets, oozing carefree vibes.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Been making some awful decisions in my life lately, but I&rsquo;m lowkey just a chill guy <a href="https://t.co/pyu7Vo36yA">pic.twitter.com/pyu7Vo36yA</a>
&mdash; Dabz 🇬🇼 (@Dabzzzz97) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dabzzzz97/status/1858898155498041608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a></blockquote>

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&nbsp;The character was created by artist Philip Banks in 2023, but it was not until November this year that it went viral. The meme stood out as a favourite to underline positivity and coolness when surrounded by stressful situations.
5. Olympians Yusuf Dike&ccedil; and Kim Yeji &nbsp; Turkish shooter Yusuf Dike&ccedil; and South Korean shooter Kim Yeji stole the limelight at the 2024 Paris Olympics with their unique styles and personalities.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Olympic <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/shootingsport?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#shootingsport</a> stars we didn&rsquo;t know we needed. 🇰🇷 Kim Yeji 🤝 Yusuf Dike&ccedil; 🇹🇷 <a href="https://t.co/gfkyGjFg4I">pic.twitter.com/gfkyGjFg4I</a>
&mdash; The Olympic Games (@Olympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics/status/1818909520661278729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
 Dike&ccedil; gained viral fame for his relaxed demeanour, competing in a casual outfit without the typical protective gear, while Kim Yeji captivated audiences with her focused attitude, earning her the title of "main character energy." &nbsp; Dike&ccedil;'s hand-in-pocket posture led to humorous comparisons and memes depicting him as a "hitman". &nbsp; 6. Donald Trump's garbage truck stunt &nbsp; Just days before the US election day, Donald Trump climbed on a garbage truck in Wisconsin to take a jab at Joe Biden and Kamala Harris over their comment about supporters of the Republican presidential candidate. &nbsp; "This truck is in honour of Kamala and Joe Biden," Trump said from the passenger seat, sparking a wave of memes and jokes.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
PRESIDENT TRUMP: "How do you like my garbage truck? This truck is in honor of Kamala and Joe Biden." <a href="https://t.co/7UwMZ8syvx">pic.twitter.com/7UwMZ8syvx</a>
&mdash; Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrumpWarRoom/status/1851753216934903956?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
 &nbsp;The event showcased how humour could thrive in political discourse, despite a polarised campaign involving at least two assassination attempts.
7. Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy&rsquo;s workweek debate &nbsp; Indian billionaire and the co-founder of one of the country's biggest IT companies Infosys, Narayana Murthy's advocacy for a 70-hour workweek touched the raw nerve of working professionals in 2024.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🤣🤣🤣 <a href="https://t.co/YBZNm4gFNB">pic.twitter.com/YBZNm4gFNB</a>
&mdash; sanjoy ghose (@advsanjoy) <a href="https://twitter.com/advsanjoy/status/1871920384590958616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
 &nbsp;The 78-year-old software entrepreneur had suggested that young professionals in India need to embrace longer hours to compete globally. Murthy's remarks were met with criticism, sparking a debate about work-life balance and employee productivity.
8. Moo Deng, viral baby pygmy hippo &nbsp; Moo Deng, a baby pygmy hippopotamus born at a Thailand zoo, became a viral sensation&mdash;thanks to her playful antics.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
there can only be one congratulations to moo deng on being our top meme of the year <a href="https://t.co/vbifurnGGS">pic.twitter.com/vbifurnGGS</a>
&mdash; X (@X) <a href="https://twitter.com/X/status/1871243966794104872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The videos of Moo Deng avoiding bath time and mimicking chewing captivated internet users, leading to a flurry of memes depicting her in relatable scenarios, with captions like "Me whenever someone calls me pretty." She was also featured in a Saturday Night Live episode, besides having an official theme song.
9. "They are eating the dogs" &nbsp; Donald Trump's bizarre claims about Haitian migrants "eating pets" in Ohio sparked a meme frenzy on TikTok during the peak of the US election campaign.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"I love you. I would never let the Haitians eat you." <a href="https://t.co/47QguOUpAC">pic.twitter.com/47QguOUpAC</a>
&mdash; Rare Trumps (@TrumpsRare) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrumpsRare/status/1832957584694792634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The local authorities promptly debunked the rumours, but the sheer absurdity of Trump's claims created a wave of memes. The event also underscored how misinformation could spread rapidly amidst a highly charged election campaign.
10. "Chin tapak dam dam" &nbsp; Social media does work in mysterious ways. How else would you explain a cartoon magic spell from an Indian children's animated show to take over social media timelines, years after going on-air?
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<script async="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>
 &nbsp;The catchphrase from the 'Chhota Bheem' show became a viral trend after a fan revisited an old episode where the villain, 'Takiya', casts a spell to showcase his magical powers. &nbsp; The dialogue inspired several memes and creative adaptations, with many celebrities joining in on the fun.
11. Elon Musk jumping at Trump's rally &nbsp; Donald Trump's election victory left, among other things, a photograph of an elated Elon Musk jumping on the stage with his hands open, to live rent-free in our mind.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I don&rsquo;t know if this will make sense to anyone but Elon jumps like a homeschool kid <a href="https://t.co/9b9eMyCsKy">pic.twitter.com/9b9eMyCsKy</a>
&mdash; Ben Palmer (@benjpalmer) <a href="https://twitter.com/benjpalmer/status/1842753242062631204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While the Tesla CEO's entrance was meant to charge up Trump supporters at his Pennsylvania rally, the awkward jump in a Make American Great Again (MAGA) cap became a butt of jokes, with social media users adding their own creative captions and edits.
What was your favourite meme of 2024? Tell us in the comments.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Trending: From TikTok trends and Olympics swag to absurdities leading up to the US election, 2024 proved that memes remain the lifeblood of internet culture

Unless you had been living under the rock, or in a bunker with no Wi-Fi, there's no way you didn't catch the wind of the ever-evolving meme game. From TikTok trends and Olympics swag to absurdities leading up to the US election, 2024 proved that memes remain the lifeblood of internet culture, perfectly summing up our chaotic lives. Humour, creativity, and pop culture came together to capture moments that were as entertaining as they were reflective of our shared experiences. While a few memes poked fun at renowned personalities for their unsolicited suggestions, some celebrated the everyday struggles, uniting millions in laughter and commentary. Here's a look at the top 11 memes that defined 2024, in no particular order: 1. "Very Demure, Very Mindful" This meme took off from a beauty influencer's 40-second TikTok video where she described her makeup routine as "very demure, very mindful", highlighting a point about modest self-presentation. you see how he sits on his throne? very demure, very mindful, very fancy pic.twitter.com/O91EOmTvMD — Josh RR Jokien (@joshcarlosjosh) August 16, 2024 Jools Lebron's video, however, turned into a humourous commentary on the pressures of appearance in the digital age, triggering countless variations and parodies. 2. Look Between X and Y on Your Keyboard This social media trend had users asking others to "look between" specific letters on their keyboards, revealing hidden messages. If you look at your keyboard while driving, the thing between Q and R will meet you with a challan.#RoadSafety @dtptraffic — Delhi Police (@DelhiPolice) April 23, 2024 For instance, looking between 'H' and 'L' reveals 'JK', meaning "just kidding". This trend gained traction across various platforms, with brands and individuals creating their own versions. 3. 'Hawk Tuah' The 'Hawk Tuah' meme soared sometime in July, with the phrase — the distinctive sound of a vigorous spitting action during oral sex — becoming an internet meme thanks to a 22-year-old American woman's animated, but innocuous, response to a question about one move in bed that 'makes a man go crazy every time'. Hawk Tuah - The original interview that started it all pic.twitter.com/QiDfnmXjye — The Postman (@officalpostman) June 22, 2024 Although the woman regretted the action on camera shortly after, the internet latched on to the moment and turned it into a viral meme. Last we checked, she had a new podcast show titled ‘Talk Tuah'. 4. Chill Guy If you've been browsing social media recently, we bet you've come across this character of an anamorphic dog, with its hands tucked in its pockets, oozing carefree vibes. Been making some awful decisions in my life lately, but I’m lowkey just a chill guy pic.twitter.com/pyu7Vo36yA — Dabz 🇬🇼 (@Dabzzzz97) November 19, 2024 The character was created by artist Philip Banks in 2023, but it was not until November this year that it went viral. The meme stood out as a favourite to underline positivity and coolness when surrounded by stressful situations. 5. Olympians Yusuf Dikeç and Kim Yeji Turkish shooter Yusuf Dikeç and South Korean shooter Kim Yeji stole the limelight at the 2024 Paris Olympics with their unique styles and personalities. The Olympic #shootingsport stars we didn’t know we needed. 🇰🇷 Kim Yeji 🤝 Yusuf Dikeç 🇹🇷 pic.twitter.com/gfkyGjFg4I — The Olympic Games (@Olympics) August 1, 2024 Dikeç gained viral fame for his relaxed demeanour, competing in a casual outfit without the typical protective gear, while Kim Yeji captivated audiences with her focused attitude, earning her the title of "main character energy." Dikeç's hand-in-pocket posture led to humorous comparisons and memes depicting him as a "hitman". 6. Donald Trump's garbage truck stunt Just days before the US election day, Donald Trump climbed on a garbage truck in Wisconsin to take a jab at Joe Biden and Kamala Harris over their comment about supporters of the Republican presidential candidate. "This truck is in honour of Kamala and Joe Biden," Trump said from the passenger seat, sparking a wave of memes and jokes. PRESIDENT TRUMP: "How do you like my garbage truck? This truck is in honor of Kamala and Joe Biden." pic.twitter.com/7UwMZ8syvx — Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) October 30, 2024 The event showcased how humour could thrive in political discourse, despite a polarised campaign involving at least two assassination attempts. 7. Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy’s workweek debate Indian billionaire and the co-founder of one of the country's biggest IT companies Infosys, Narayana Murthy's advocacy for a 70-hour workweek touched the raw nerve of working professionals in 2024. 🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/YBZNm4gFNB — sanjoy ghose (@advsanjoy) December 25, 2024 The 78-year-old software entrepreneur had suggested that young professionals in India need to embrace longer hours to compete globally. Murthy's remarks were met with criticism, sparking a debate about work-life balance and employee productivity. 8. Moo Deng, viral baby pygmy hippo Moo Deng, a baby pygmy hippopotamus born at a Thailand zoo, became a viral sensation—thanks to her playful antics. there can only be one congratulations to moo deng on being our top meme of the year pic.twitter.com/vbifurnGGS — X (@X) December 23, 2024 The videos of Moo Deng avoiding bath time and mimicking chewing captivated internet users, leading to a flurry of memes depicting her in relatable scenarios, with captions like "Me whenever someone calls me pretty." She was also featured in a Saturday Night Live episode, besides having an official theme song. 9. "They are eating the dogs" Donald Trump's bizarre claims about Haitian migrants "eating pets" in Ohio sparked a meme frenzy on TikTok during the peak of the US election campaign. "I love you. I would never let the Haitians eat you." pic.twitter.com/47QguOUpAC — Rare Trumps (@TrumpsRare) September 9, 2024 The local authorities promptly debunked the rumours, but the sheer absurdity of Trump's claims created a wave of memes. The event also underscored how misinformation could spread rapidly amidst a highly charged election campaign. 10. "Chin tapak dam dam" Social media does work in mysterious ways. How else would you explain a cartoon magic spell from an Indian children's animated show to take over social media timelines, years after going on-air? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shraddha ✶ (@shraddhakapoor) The catchphrase from the 'Chhota Bheem' show became a viral trend after a fan revisited an old episode where the villain, 'Takiya', casts a spell to showcase his magical powers. The dialogue inspired several memes and creative adaptations, with many celebrities joining in on the fun. 11. Elon Musk jumping at Trump's rally Donald Trump's election victory left, among other things, a photograph of an elated Elon Musk jumping on the stage with his hands open, to live rent-free in our mind. I don’t know if this will make sense to anyone but Elon jumps like a homeschool kid pic.twitter.com/9b9eMyCsKy — Ben Palmer (@benjpalmer) October 6, 2024 While the Tesla CEO's entrance was meant to charge up Trump supporters at his Pennsylvania rally, the awkward jump in a Make American Great Again (MAGA) cap became a butt of jokes, with social media users adding their own creative captions and edits. What was your favourite meme of 2024? Tell us in the comments.

WION Rewind 2024 | Viral, nostalgic, hilarious: 11 memes that made the year unforgettable

Donald Trump was elected president of the United States in November 2024, becoming only the second leader ever to win a second non-consecutive term at the White House. But he was coming to the position slowly from the start of the year, inch by inch.
The year started with the first major opponent of Trump, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, pulling out of the race after Trump threatened to expose him. Soon, other contenders came in, including Indian-origin leaders Vivek Ramaswamy and Nikki Haley. While Ramaswamy, a political newcomer, switched alliances with Trump, Haley remained a holdout till the last moment, eventually accepting him as the Republican candidate, albeit grudgingly.&nbsp;
Trump rewarded Ramaswamy for his newly expressed loyalty by putting him in charge of the upcoming Department of Government Efficiency, along with the world's richest man, Elon Musk. But he did not forget the vitriol unleashed by Haley on the campaign trail, by not including her in his cabinet even after making the right noises. Not only that, he went on to openly say that she'll not be included in his team, adding insult to injury.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jimmy-carters-personal-relationship-with-indias-carterpuri-trip-down-memory-lane-8577172">Jimmy Carter&rsquo;s &lsquo;personal relationship&rsquo; with India&rsquo;s Carterpuri: Trip down memory lane</a>
Was Trump's victory a foregone conclusion? In many ways, yes. Trump was able to articulate and exaggerate 'the fear of the other' among the mostly white majority who supported him. But more than that, he appears to have chipped into the traditional Democratic voting base of minorities and women too. Every community that had grievances against the Democratic administration of Joe Biden seems to have voted for Trump, or stayed away from voting, 'in revenge'. Particularly prominent among such voters were the Muslim and Arab Americans. Their community leaders were vocal against the continuing support of the US for Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza in retaliation for the October 7, 2023 terror attack. In spite of massive casualties of Palestinian civilians and a humanitarian catastrophe, Biden continued to support and arm Israel, and Democrats paid a heavy price at the election.
Blacks and Hispanics who voted for Trump may have done so due to the continuing slow economic growth and a perception that migrants -legal and illegal - were taking away American jobs. By promising to revive local manufacturing and create jobs, Trump played the right tunes they wanted to hear.
The white majority voted for Trump to maintain their way of life. That involved jobs, without the threat of cheap labour replacing them at the workplace, and maintaining sentimental and religious beliefs they hold dear. Trump's antagonist approach to LGBTQ and transgender rights, in the view of his supporters, was advocating traditional family and marriage (as the one between a man and a woman).&nbsp;
Many of his supporters believed Trump when he said on the campaign trail that he was the only one who could stop the wars raging in Ukraine and West Asia. It's true, though the mainstream media hardly gives him any credit, that Trump did bring about rapprochement between Israel and some of its traditional Arab rivals through the Abraham Accords. It's also true that Trump has a direct line with Russian President Vladimir Putin and could bring about an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump is no fan of either Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky or the NATO military alliance that's propping up his country against the mighty Russians even when aware that the two countries are no match in military terms. Zelensky suddenly started talking about a peace deal soon after Trump won, clearly aware that the flow of arms and cash would end once Biden exits the White House.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rewind-2024-wion-yearender-a-year-of-shocking-defeats-and-historic-victories-elections-around-the-world-in-2024-8576088">Reigns lost, majorities gained: Major elections that shaped the world in 2024</a>
Trump is also the only president who has had a direct meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un. Kim, whose troops have now joined Russia in the Ukraine war, has vowed the strongest anti-US policy as Trump takes over, but Trump might still have the ability to bring him to the negotiation table, which Biden didn't even attempt.
The Trump phenomenon was not only helped by his strong stance on domestic issues, illegal migrants, the economy and the traditional American way of life. His stance was boosted by the continuous efforts of what his backers call the deep state to discredit him.&nbsp;
The only way to ensure Trump doesn't win was to prevent him from running for office. Throughout 2024, the Democratic establishment hounded him with court cases: from 2020 election interference to Stormy Daniels hush money case and tax evasion. Had he not been as rich as he is, Trump would have fallen victim to these. With money in the bank, boosted by the rise of his social media platform Truth Social, Trump not only fought the cases but successfully turned them in his favour in the eyes of his supporters. They believed him when he said it was all a witch hunt.
Those who felt sympathy towards Trump but were still sitting on the fence about voting for him were fully converted when Trump survived an assassination attempt. What could have changed the course of events, worked massively in favour of Trump.&nbsp;
It's partly the boost to his popularity following the bid on his life, that led Democrats to reconsider Biden as the rival for Trump. Till then, Biden was fully confident of winning a second term and pushed back against attempts within the party to persuade him to exit the race. But eventually, the palace coup won. Biden, who even did a presidential debate with Trump, was forced to exit the race by his own party, which brought in his vice president Kamala Harris as the new Democratic candidate.
Coming in at the fag end of the election year, Harris suffered at the election from what could only be called 'too much in too little time'. Contrary to what mainstream media and paid punditry made one believe, Harris didn't stand a chance. The electorate was divided almost evenly. It was only a question of who will win the electoral votes. And Trump eventually won both the electoral votes and the popular vote.
The Trump phenomenon is only resuming in 2024. It had made its impact in his first term. And it will be at full display after he takes over on January 20. By vocalising the prejudices and fears of the majority, Trump has managed to divide the polity. There's going to be a rise in hateful rhetoric, racism, police brutality and border crackdowns which were the hallmarks of his first term. Trump is re-entering a country and world roiled by divisions and conflicts not seen in recent memory. Will he ameliorate them, or accelerate them? Will Trump the candidate be different from Trump the president? Going by his current priorities as president-in-waiting - accession of Greenland, control of Panama Canal and making Canada the 51st state - the lunacy is only beginning.
Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Understand the key factors behind Trump's victory, including his appeal to traditional Republican voters and his ability to sway some Democratic constituencies.

Donald Trump was elected president of the United States in November 2024, becoming only the second leader ever to win a second non-consecutive term at the White House. But he was coming to the position slowly from the start of the year, inch by inch. The year started with the first major opponent of Trump, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, pulling out of the race after Trump threatened to expose him. Soon, other contenders came in, including Indian-origin leaders Vivek Ramaswamy and Nikki Haley. While Ramaswamy, a political newcomer, switched alliances with Trump, Haley remained a holdout till the last moment, eventually accepting him as the Republican candidate, albeit grudgingly. Trump rewarded Ramaswamy for his newly expressed loyalty by putting him in charge of the upcoming Department of Government Efficiency, along with the world's richest man, Elon Musk. But he did not forget the vitriol unleashed by Haley on the campaign trail, by not including her in his cabinet even after making the right noises. Not only that, he went on to openly say that she'll not be included in his team, adding insult to injury. Also read | Jimmy Carter’s ‘personal relationship’ with India’s Carterpuri: Trip down memory lane Was Trump's victory a foregone conclusion? In many ways, yes. Trump was able to articulate and exaggerate 'the fear of the other' among the mostly white majority who supported him. But more than that, he appears to have chipped into the traditional Democratic voting base of minorities and women too. Every community that had grievances against the Democratic administration of Joe Biden seems to have voted for Trump, or stayed away from voting, 'in revenge'. Particularly prominent among such voters were the Muslim and Arab Americans. Their community leaders were vocal against the continuing support of the US for Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza in retaliation for the October 7, 2023 terror attack. In spite of massive casualties of Palestinian civilians and a humanitarian catastrophe, Biden continued to support and arm Israel, and Democrats paid a heavy price at the election. Blacks and Hispanics who voted for Trump may have done so due to the continuing slow economic growth and a perception that migrants -legal and illegal - were taking away American jobs. By promising to revive local manufacturing and create jobs, Trump played the right tunes they wanted to hear. The white majority voted for Trump to maintain their way of life. That involved jobs, without the threat of cheap labour replacing them at the workplace, and maintaining sentimental and religious beliefs they hold dear. Trump's antagonist approach to LGBTQ and transgender rights, in the view of his supporters, was advocating traditional family and marriage (as the one between a man and a woman). Many of his supporters believed Trump when he said on the campaign trail that he was the only one who could stop the wars raging in Ukraine and West Asia. It's true, though the mainstream media hardly gives him any credit, that Trump did bring about rapprochement between Israel and some of its traditional Arab rivals through the Abraham Accords. It's also true that Trump has a direct line with Russian President Vladimir Putin and could bring about an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump is no fan of either Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky or the NATO military alliance that's propping up his country against the mighty Russians even when aware that the two countries are no match in military terms. Zelensky suddenly started talking about a peace deal soon after Trump won, clearly aware that the flow of arms and cash would end once Biden exits the White House. Also read | Reigns lost, majorities gained: Major elections that shaped the world in 2024 Trump is also the only president who has had a direct meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un. Kim, whose troops have now joined Russia in the Ukraine war, has vowed the strongest anti-US policy as Trump takes over, but Trump might still have the ability to bring him to the negotiation table, which Biden didn't even attempt. The Trump phenomenon was not only helped by his strong stance on domestic issues, illegal migrants, the economy and the traditional American way of life. His stance was boosted by the continuous efforts of what his backers call the deep state to discredit him. The only way to ensure Trump doesn't win was to prevent him from running for office. Throughout 2024, the Democratic establishment hounded him with court cases: from 2020 election interference to Stormy Daniels hush money case and tax evasion. Had he not been as rich as he is, Trump would have fallen victim to these. With money in the bank, boosted by the rise of his social media platform Truth Social, Trump not only fought the cases but successfully turned them in his favour in the eyes of his supporters. They believed him when he said it was all a witch hunt. Those who felt sympathy towards Trump but were still sitting on the fence about voting for him were fully converted when Trump survived an assassination attempt. What could have changed the course of events, worked massively in favour of Trump. It's partly the boost to his popularity following the bid on his life, that led Democrats to reconsider Biden as the rival for Trump. Till then, Biden was fully confident of winning a second term and pushed back against attempts within the party to persuade him to exit the race. But eventually, the palace coup won. Biden, who even did a presidential debate with Trump, was forced to exit the race by his own party, which brought in his vice president Kamala Harris as the new Democratic candidate. Coming in at the fag end of the election year, Harris suffered at the election from what could only be called 'too much in too little time'. Contrary to what mainstream media and paid punditry made one believe, Harris didn't stand a chance. The electorate was divided almost evenly. It was only a question of who will win the electoral votes. And Trump eventually won both the electoral votes and the popular vote. The Trump phenomenon is only resuming in 2024. It had made its impact in his first term. And it will be at full display after he takes over on January 20. By vocalising the prejudices and fears of the majority, Trump has managed to divide the polity. There's going to be a rise in hateful rhetoric, racism, police brutality and border crackdowns which were the hallmarks of his first term. Trump is re-entering a country and world roiled by divisions and conflicts not seen in recent memory. Will he ameliorate them, or accelerate them? Will Trump the candidate be different from Trump the president? Going by his current priorities as president-in-waiting - accession of Greenland, control of Panama Canal and making Canada the 51st state - the lunacy is only beginning. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

2024: Year of the Trump phenomenon

US President-elect Donald Trump could become the first elected politician in modern history to be hosted for two state visits by the British royal family, The Telegraph reported on Friday (Dec 27).
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gisele-pelicot-rape-case-at-least-15-convicts-appeal-for-retrial-8573997" aria-label="Gisele Pelicot rape case: At least 15 convicts appeal&nbsp;for&nbsp;retrial">Gisele Pelicot rape case: At least 15 convicts appeal&nbsp;for&nbsp;retrial</a>
Downing Street and the Foreign Office are preparing to offer the incoming&nbsp;US president an invitation once he is back in the White House, the report said, without citing specific sourcing. It quoted one source as saying no detailed discussions had yet taken place.
The Telegraph added that any such visit would be unlikely to happen until at least 2026, given the schedule of King Charles.
Britain's Foreign Office, Downing Street and the Trump transition team did not immediately respond to Reuters request for comment.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-rise-in-pro-khalistani-movements-rolled-over-in-2024-know-its-impact-on-india-canada-relations-8573892" aria-label="How rise in pro-Khalistani movements rolled over in India in 2024?">How rise in pro-Khalistani movements rolled over in India in 2024?</a>
Trump's three-day state visit in 2019 was cast at the time as a chance to celebrate Britain's "special relationship" with the&nbsp;U.S., boost trade links in a post-Brexit world, and reaffirm security cooperation.
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

The Telegraph added that any such visit would be unlikely to happen until at least 2026, given the schedule of King Charles.

US President-elect Donald Trump could become the first elected politician in modern history to be hosted for two state visits by the British royal family, The Telegraph reported on Friday (Dec 27). Also read | Gisele Pelicot rape case: At least 15 convicts appeal for retrial Downing Street and the Foreign Office are preparing to offer the incoming US president an invitation once he is back in the White House, the report said, without citing specific sourcing. It quoted one source as saying no detailed discussions had yet taken place. The Telegraph added that any such visit would be unlikely to happen until at least 2026, given the schedule of King Charles. Britain's Foreign Office, Downing Street and the Trump transition team did not immediately respond to Reuters request for comment. Also read | How rise in pro-Khalistani movements rolled over in India in 2024? Trump's three-day state visit in 2019 was cast at the time as a chance to celebrate Britain's "special relationship" with the U.S., boost trade links in a post-Brexit world, and reaffirm security cooperation. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Trump may get second state visit invite to UK, but by 2026: Report

The United States is set to announce $1.25 billion in military aid for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-animals-poisoned-blown-up-at-top-secret-uk-military-lab-8572706">Ukraine</a>, according to a report by The Associated Press (AP).
<h2>What will the aid package include?</h2>
This aid package will include a large quantity of munitions, along with those for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and the HAWK air defence system. Stinger missiles, along with 155 mm and 105 mm artillery rounds, are also part of the aid.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-troops-killing-themselves-rather-than-surrendering-to-ukraine-forces-claims-us-8573283">N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US</a>
The announcement will mark the Biden administration&rsquo;s 22nd aid package under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Officials are expected to make the announcement on Monday, according to AP.
Earlier this month, President Biden announced a separate $988 million aid package for Ukraine, aimed at ensuring the country has "the tools it needs to prevail in its fight against Russian aggression."
During a recent speech at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed the administration&rsquo;s stance on supporting Ukraine. 
"This administration has made its choice. And so has a bipartisan coalition in Congress. The next administration must make its own choice," Austin said. 
"But, from this library, from this podium, I am confident that President Reagan would have stood on the side of Ukraine, American security and human freedom," he added.
<h2>Why does this package matter?</h2>
This new package comes amidst Russia's recent attacks on Ukraine&rsquo;s power infrastructure and ahead of the incoming Trump administration.
During his campaign, President-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-elect-donald-trump-names-fierce-fighter-kevin-cabrera-as-panama-ambassador-8567276" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a>, along with Vice President-elect JD Vance, heavily criticised the Biden administration&rsquo;s support for Ukraine following Russia&rsquo;s invasion in 2022.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/portable-speaker-bomb-russia-ukraine-war-murder-plot-by-ukraine-8573309">Ukraine war: Russia claims it foiled Kyiv plot to kill top officer using &lsquo;speaker bomb&rsquo;</a>
Trump during his campaign had claimed he would bring the war to an end "within 24 hours" of taking office, although he did not provide specific details on how he would do it. 
While Vice President-elect JD Vance had earlier said that Ukraine should cede the territory seized by Russia and establish a demilitarised zone. This proposal was rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.

World, Ukraine war: President Biden announced a separate $988 million aid package for Ukraine ensuring the country has "the tools it needs to prevail in its fight against Russia"

The United States is set to announce $1.25 billion in military aid for Ukraine, according to a report by The Associated Press (AP). What will the aid package include? This aid package will include a large quantity of munitions, along with those for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and the HAWK air defence system. Stinger missiles, along with 155 mm and 105 mm artillery rounds, are also part of the aid. Also read: N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US The announcement will mark the Biden administration’s 22nd aid package under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Officials are expected to make the announcement on Monday, according to AP. Earlier this month, President Biden announced a separate $988 million aid package for Ukraine, aimed at ensuring the country has "the tools it needs to prevail in its fight against Russian aggression." During a recent speech at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed the administration’s stance on supporting Ukraine. "This administration has made its choice. And so has a bipartisan coalition in Congress. The next administration must make its own choice," Austin said. "But, from this library, from this podium, I am confident that President Reagan would have stood on the side of Ukraine, American security and human freedom," he added. Why does this package matter? This new package comes amidst Russia's recent attacks on Ukraine’s power infrastructure and ahead of the incoming Trump administration. During his campaign, President-elect Donald Trump, along with Vice President-elect JD Vance, heavily criticised the Biden administration’s support for Ukraine following Russia’s invasion in 2022. Also read: Ukraine war: Russia claims it foiled Kyiv plot to kill top officer using ‘speaker bomb’ Trump during his campaign had claimed he would bring the war to an end "within 24 hours" of taking office, although he did not provide specific details on how he would do it. While Vice President-elect JD Vance had earlier said that Ukraine should cede the territory seized by Russia and establish a demilitarised zone. This proposal was rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine war: US Prez Biden to announce $1.25 bn military aid for Kyiv

US President-elect Donald Trump on Friday (Dec 27) urged the Supreme Court to pause the looming TikTok ban, which is set to take effect the day before his January 20 inauguration unless ByteDance, the popular short video app's Chinese owner, divests it. &nbsp;
In a legal brief, Trump's team argued for "more breathing space".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-trump-overturn-bidens-pardons-president-elect-vows-to-pursue-death-penalty-vigorously-786624" aria-label="Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously'">Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously'</a>
"In light of the novelty and difficulty of this case, the court should consider staying the statutory deadline to grant more breathing space to address these issues," Trump's legal team wrote, urging the court to give him "the opportunity to pursue a political resolution."
In his filing, Trump's attorney emphasised that the president-elect is not taking a position on the case's legal merits but is seeking flexibility for his administration to address the matter politically. &nbsp;
"President Trump takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute," wrote John Sauer in the amicus curiae brief.
"Instead, he respectfully requests that the court consider staying the act's deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025, while it considers the merits of this case, thus permitting President Trump's incoming Administration the opportunity to pursue a political resolution of the questions at issue in the case."
<h2>Donald Trump's changing TikTok stance</h2>
Trump had previously attempted to ban TikTok on national security grounds during his first term.&nbsp;
At the time, he cited fears of data misuse and propaganda from the Chinese government. These concerns, echoed by Democrats, led his successor, Joe Biden, to sign a law banning the app.
However, Trump recently shifted his perspective and has since softened his stance.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-ban-in-america-us-federal-court-rejects-relief-request-783857" aria-label="TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban">TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban</a>
Last week, he expressed newfound support for the app, citing the need for competition against platforms like Facebook and Instagram, both owned by Meta.
"Now (that) I'm thinking about it. I'm for TikTok, because you need competition."
"If you don't have TikTok, you have Facebook and Instagram -- and that's, you know, that's Zuckerberg," he told Bloomberg. &nbsp;&nbsp; The shift follows a meeting between Trump and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew at Mar-a-Lago, where Trump hinted at re-evaluating the app's potential ban. &nbsp;
<h2>TikTok's legal stand</h2>
A law, set to take effect on January 19, mandates TikTok's sale to a non-Chinese owner or a full ban in the US. After the deadline, US-based app stores and internet providers could face significant fines for hosting TikTok unless it complies with the forced sale.&nbsp;
TikTok has challenged the law in court, arguing that the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act violates its First Amendment rights. Last week, the Supreme Court agreed to hear the app's appeal, with oral arguments set for January 10, leaving little time for resolution before the deadline. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-the-three-death-row-inmates-joe-biden-didnt-pardon-heres-all-you-need-to-know-786345" aria-label="Who are the three death row inmates Joe Biden didn't pardon? Here's all you need to know">Who are the three death row inmates Joe Biden didn't pardon? Here's all you need to know</a>
Free speech groups, including the ACLU, have also filed briefs opposing the ban, warning of potential censorship and disruption to users&rsquo; rights.
"Such a ban is unprecedented in our country and, if it goes into effect, will cause a far-reaching disruption in Americans' ability to engage with the content and audiences of their choice online," said rights group ACLU in its filing.
(With inputs from agencies)

US President-elect Donald Trump's legal team argues for a stay on the TikTok divestment deadline, highlighting the case's complexities and the need for the new administration's involvement.

US President-elect Donald Trump on Friday (Dec 27) urged the Supreme Court to pause the looming TikTok ban, which is set to take effect the day before his January 20 inauguration unless ByteDance, the popular short video app's Chinese owner, divests it. In a legal brief, Trump's team argued for "more breathing space". Also read | Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously' "In light of the novelty and difficulty of this case, the court should consider staying the statutory deadline to grant more breathing space to address these issues," Trump's legal team wrote, urging the court to give him "the opportunity to pursue a political resolution." In his filing, Trump's attorney emphasised that the president-elect is not taking a position on the case's legal merits but is seeking flexibility for his administration to address the matter politically. "President Trump takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute," wrote John Sauer in the amicus curiae brief. "Instead, he respectfully requests that the court consider staying the act's deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025, while it considers the merits of this case, thus permitting President Trump's incoming Administration the opportunity to pursue a political resolution of the questions at issue in the case." Donald Trump's changing TikTok stance Trump had previously attempted to ban TikTok on national security grounds during his first term. At the time, he cited fears of data misuse and propaganda from the Chinese government. These concerns, echoed by Democrats, led his successor, Joe Biden, to sign a law banning the app. However, Trump recently shifted his perspective and has since softened his stance. Also read | TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban Last week, he expressed newfound support for the app, citing the need for competition against platforms like Facebook and Instagram, both owned by Meta. "Now (that) I'm thinking about it. I'm for TikTok, because you need competition." "If you don't have TikTok, you have Facebook and Instagram -- and that's, you know, that's Zuckerberg," he told Bloomberg. The shift follows a meeting between Trump and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew at Mar-a-Lago, where Trump hinted at re-evaluating the app's potential ban. TikTok's legal stand A law, set to take effect on January 19, mandates TikTok's sale to a non-Chinese owner or a full ban in the US. After the deadline, US-based app stores and internet providers could face significant fines for hosting TikTok unless it complies with the forced sale. TikTok has challenged the law in court, arguing that the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act violates its First Amendment rights. Last week, the Supreme Court agreed to hear the app's appeal, with oral arguments set for January 10, leaving little time for resolution before the deadline. Also read | Who are the three death row inmates Joe Biden didn't pardon? Here's all you need to know Free speech groups, including the ACLU, have also filed briefs opposing the ban, warning of potential censorship and disruption to users’ rights. "Such a ban is unprecedented in our country and, if it goes into effect, will cause a far-reaching disruption in Americans' ability to engage with the content and audiences of their choice online," said rights group ACLU in its filing. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump urges US Supreme Court to pause TikTok ban ahead of inauguration

Washington DC | To hear Donald Trump tell it, the day he returns to the White House on January 20 will mark the beginning of &ldquo;the golden age of America&rdquo;. It will be a strong, safe and prosperous country, leaving divisions of the past behind. &nbsp;
That is how the 78-year-old former and future president portrayed his country&rsquo;s future on the night of November 5, when results confirmed his spectacular return to power after losing the presidency in 2020 in an election he termed fraudulent. Sixty-four courts disagreed with his complaints.&nbsp;
What stood out in his Golden Age victory speech was mention of the word unity, given that the United States is almost evenly (50/50) divided.&nbsp;
Trump won 77,297,721 popular votes. His Democratic opponent, Kamala Harris, gained 75,009,338. That&rsquo;s a difference of 1.5 per cent. But in the electoral college, America&rsquo;s antiquated election system, Trump&rsquo;s victory was sweeping: 312-226.&nbsp;
It is no surprise that many of the 75 million Americans who voted against Trump harbour doubts about the prospect of unity and the purity of the promised gold in the new Golden Age. Will it be 24-carat, 14-carat or just brass?&nbsp;
Trump watchers, whose number is reflected by a growing library of books about Trump (so far, at least 48), include many who predict that Trump&rsquo;s second term will be as chaotic and divisive as the first.&nbsp;
And judging from his nominees for cabinet posts which require confirmation by the Senate, much of the new administration&rsquo;s energy will be spent on a campaign of revenge against critics, many of whom served in his first administration and portray the leader of the world&rsquo;s most powerful country as a threat to democracy.&nbsp;
There are two cabinet picks who will play key roles in the campaign of retribution Trump has forecast in a number of stump speeches. &nbsp;
Also read: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-fbi-director-pick-kash-patel-targetted-by-iranian-hacking-attack-781413">Trump's FBI director pick Kash Patel targetted by Iranian hacking attack</a>
One is Kash Patel, proposed to become chief of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The other is Pam Bondi, Trumps pick for Attorney General after his original nominee, Matt Gaetz, withdrew in the face of allegations of sex trafficking and sex with a minor.&nbsp;
If they survive what will be bruising Senate confirmation hearings, Patel and Bondi will yield formidable power in a retribution campaign. Both are hard-line Trump loyalists and Patel would report to Bondi, a former Florida attorney general.&nbsp;
One of the world&rsquo;s biggest criminal investigations organisations, the FBI conducts investigations into crimes and terrorism. But the responsibility to launch operations or bringing lawsuits falls on the Justice Department and its leader, the attorney general. &nbsp; Neither Patel nor Bondi are likely to ignore the wishes of Trump, even if expressed only indirectly, as far as targets are concerned.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-florida-congressman-matt-gaetz-violated-state-laws-with-drug-use-sex-with-a-minor-report-786261">Ex-Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz violated state laws with drug use, sex with a minor: Report</a>
An &ldquo;enemies list&rdquo; already exists, drawn up by Patel as an appendix to a 2023 book he published after leaving government service (he held various positions in the justice department and the White House). The book is entitled Government Gangsters and the list comprises 60 names.&nbsp;
They include top officials of both the Biden and first Trump administrations, from Bill Barr, former Attorney General under Trump and John Brennan, CIA chief under Barack Obama and Mark Esper, former Secretary of Defence under Trump. Joe Biden is on the list and so are less prominent members of the establishment, such as Stephanie Grisham, former Trump press secretary.&nbsp;
They are all identified as Members of the Executive Branch Deep State. Patel, who is of Indian heritage (his parents came from Gujarat) has been extremely active in promoting the concept of a Deep State, a conspiracy theory claiming there is a clandestine network of government officials who work alongside financial and industrial leaders to secretly wield power.&nbsp;
While Trump has not as often used the term Deep State as Patel and other loyalists, he asserted in the first major campaign event for the 2024 elections that &ldquo;either the deep state destroys America, or we destroy the deep state.&rdquo;&nbsp;
In the final stretch of the campaign that won him another term at the White House, Trump had frequently raged against &ldquo;the enemies from within.&rdquo; &nbsp;Who are they? Without naming them, he has left it to the imagination of his followers to figure that out.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The crazy lunatics that we have &mdash; the fascists, the Marxists, the communists, the people that we have that are actually running the country. Those people are more dangerous &mdash; the enemy from within &mdash; than Russia and China and other people.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The prospect of a Patel/Bondi power couple has alarmed Trump critics who have shown concern over Trump&rsquo;s authoritarian mindset. Katel would turn the FBI into the FBR &ndash; the Federal Bureau of Retribution, quipped political analyst Doyle McManus in a column in the Los Angeles Times.&nbsp;
David Frum, a former speechwriter for a Republican president, George W. Bush, put it more bluntly: &ldquo;Trump&rsquo;s nomination of Kash Patel threatens to turn the FBI into an instrument of personal presidential power.&rdquo;&nbsp;
This week, at the beginning of the Christmas holidays, Trump signalled that presidential power at home may not be enough. &nbsp;
He told supporters in Arizona he wanted to reassert control over the Panama Canal, a vital waterway that links the east and west coasts of the Americas. The canal was designed and built by the US Completed in 1914, it passed to full Panamanian control in 1999.&nbsp;
The threat was a rare example of a US leader saying he could push a sovereign (and friendly) country into handing over territory. The comment caused outrage in Latin America and a sharp response from Panama&rsquo;s president.&nbsp;
Analysts closely following Trump were at a loss to explain what prompted the president-elect to show public interest in the waterway. The Panama Canal was not mentioned in a single speech during Trump&rsquo;s election campaign.&nbsp;
American voters were clearly more worried about inflation and the cost of living than a waterway many couldn&rsquo;t place on a map. &nbsp;
It remains to be seen what actually happens after January 20, and how many pledges &ndash; from mass deportations of undocumented immigrants to purging federal agencies like the FBI &ndash; are fulfilled.&nbsp;
But one thing is a safe bet: Trump 2.0 will be a presidency like no other.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.
&nbsp;

Opinions  | Trump watchers, whose number is reflected by a growing library of books about Trump (so far, at least 48), include many who predict that Trump’s second term will be as chaotic and divisive as the first. 

Washington DC | To hear Donald Trump tell it, the day he returns to the White House on January 20 will mark the beginning of “the golden age of America”. It will be a strong, safe and prosperous country, leaving divisions of the past behind. That is how the 78-year-old former and future president portrayed his country’s future on the night of November 5, when results confirmed his spectacular return to power after losing the presidency in 2020 in an election he termed fraudulent. Sixty-four courts disagreed with his complaints. What stood out in his Golden Age victory speech was mention of the word unity, given that the United States is almost evenly (50/50) divided. Trump won 77,297,721 popular votes. His Democratic opponent, Kamala Harris, gained 75,009,338. That’s a difference of 1.5 per cent. But in the electoral college, America’s antiquated election system, Trump’s victory was sweeping: 312-226. It is no surprise that many of the 75 million Americans who voted against Trump harbour doubts about the prospect of unity and the purity of the promised gold in the new Golden Age. Will it be 24-carat, 14-carat or just brass? Trump watchers, whose number is reflected by a growing library of books about Trump (so far, at least 48), include many who predict that Trump’s second term will be as chaotic and divisive as the first. And judging from his nominees for cabinet posts which require confirmation by the Senate, much of the new administration’s energy will be spent on a campaign of revenge against critics, many of whom served in his first administration and portray the leader of the world’s most powerful country as a threat to democracy. There are two cabinet picks who will play key roles in the campaign of retribution Trump has forecast in a number of stump speeches. Also read: Trump's FBI director pick Kash Patel targetted by Iranian hacking attack One is Kash Patel, proposed to become chief of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The other is Pam Bondi, Trumps pick for Attorney General after his original nominee, Matt Gaetz, withdrew in the face of allegations of sex trafficking and sex with a minor. If they survive what will be bruising Senate confirmation hearings, Patel and Bondi will yield formidable power in a retribution campaign. Both are hard-line Trump loyalists and Patel would report to Bondi, a former Florida attorney general. One of the world’s biggest criminal investigations organisations, the FBI conducts investigations into crimes and terrorism. But the responsibility to launch operations or bringing lawsuits falls on the Justice Department and its leader, the attorney general. Neither Patel nor Bondi are likely to ignore the wishes of Trump, even if expressed only indirectly, as far as targets are concerned. Also read: Ex-Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz violated state laws with drug use, sex with a minor: Report An “enemies list” already exists, drawn up by Patel as an appendix to a 2023 book he published after leaving government service (he held various positions in the justice department and the White House). The book is entitled Government Gangsters and the list comprises 60 names. They include top officials of both the Biden and first Trump administrations, from Bill Barr, former Attorney General under Trump and John Brennan, CIA chief under Barack Obama and Mark Esper, former Secretary of Defence under Trump. Joe Biden is on the list and so are less prominent members of the establishment, such as Stephanie Grisham, former Trump press secretary. They are all identified as Members of the Executive Branch Deep State. Patel, who is of Indian heritage (his parents came from Gujarat) has been extremely active in promoting the concept of a Deep State, a conspiracy theory claiming there is a clandestine network of government officials who work alongside financial and industrial leaders to secretly wield power. While Trump has not as often used the term Deep State as Patel and other loyalists, he asserted in the first major campaign event for the 2024 elections that “either the deep state destroys America, or we destroy the deep state.” In the final stretch of the campaign that won him another term at the White House, Trump had frequently raged against “the enemies from within.” Who are they? Without naming them, he has left it to the imagination of his followers to figure that out. “The crazy lunatics that we have — the fascists, the Marxists, the communists, the people that we have that are actually running the country. Those people are more dangerous — the enemy from within — than Russia and China and other people.” The prospect of a Patel/Bondi power couple has alarmed Trump critics who have shown concern over Trump’s authoritarian mindset. Katel would turn the FBI into the FBR – the Federal Bureau of Retribution, quipped political analyst Doyle McManus in a column in the Los Angeles Times. David Frum, a former speechwriter for a Republican president, George W. Bush, put it more bluntly: “Trump’s nomination of Kash Patel threatens to turn the FBI into an instrument of personal presidential power.” This week, at the beginning of the Christmas holidays, Trump signalled that presidential power at home may not be enough. He told supporters in Arizona he wanted to reassert control over the Panama Canal, a vital waterway that links the east and west coasts of the Americas. The canal was designed and built by the US Completed in 1914, it passed to full Panamanian control in 1999. The threat was a rare example of a US leader saying he could push a sovereign (and friendly) country into handing over territory. The comment caused outrage in Latin America and a sharp response from Panama’s president. Analysts closely following Trump were at a loss to explain what prompted the president-elect to show public interest in the waterway. The Panama Canal was not mentioned in a single speech during Trump’s election campaign. American voters were clearly more worried about inflation and the cost of living than a waterway many couldn’t place on a map. It remains to be seen what actually happens after January 20, and how many pledges – from mass deportations of undocumented immigrants to purging federal agencies like the FBI – are fulfilled. But one thing is a safe bet: Trump 2.0 will be a presidency like no other. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Trump 2.0: The Golden Age of America or four more years of disruption?

US President-elect Donald Trump announced on Wednesday (Dec 25) that Miami-Dade county commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera will serve as the ambassador to Panama. Describing him as &ldquo;a fierce fighter for America First principles," the Republican said Cabrera has played a major role in driving economic growth and fostering international partnerships.&nbsp;
In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump wrote, &ldquo;Few understand Latin American politics as well as Kevin &ndash; He will do a FANTASTIC job representing our Nation&rsquo;s interests in Panama!&rdquo;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-cautions-against-promoting-hypotheses-about-azerbaijan-plane-crash-8568101" aria-label="Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident">Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident</a>
"In 2020, Kevin did an incredible job as my Florida State Director and, this year, advanced our MAGA Agenda as a Member of the RNC Platform Committee," Trump wrote.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113715171941661598/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

The announcement came after Trump's threat to reassert the control of the United States over the Panama Canal. The US administered the canal for several decades and then handed it over to the Central American country in 1999.&nbsp;
<h3>'Thank You, President Trump'&nbsp;</h3>
After Trump's announcement, Cabrera released a statement saying, "As a first-generation American and the son of Cuban exiles, I am profoundly grateful for everything this country has given me."&nbsp;
"Thank you, President Trump, for this incredible honour. I am eager and energized to join your administration as the next ambassador to Panama," he wrote.&nbsp;
Before becoming the Miami-Dade county commissioner, Cabrera was the director of Trump's 2020 re-election campaign in Florida.&nbsp;
In November 2024, Cabrera sponsored an initiative to recognize Hialeah's creation of President Donald J. Trump Avenue and the county commission approved it.&nbsp;
In his statement, Cabrera wrote, "I am committed to supporting President Trump's America First vision and will work tirelessly every day to uphold his bold approach to international diplomacy. Together, we will ensure that American strength, freedom, and leadership continue to shape a brighter future for all." 
(With inputs from agencies)

The upcoming US president further accused Chinese soldiers of illegally operating the Panama Canal. Panama President said that China did not influence the canal's administration. 

US President-elect Donald Trump announced on Wednesday (Dec 25) that Miami-Dade county commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera will serve as the ambassador to Panama. Describing him as “a fierce fighter for America First principles," the Republican said Cabrera has played a major role in driving economic growth and fostering international partnerships. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Few understand Latin American politics as well as Kevin – He will do a FANTASTIC job representing our Nation’s interests in Panama!” Also read | Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident "In 2020, Kevin did an incredible job as my Florida State Director and, this year, advanced our MAGA Agenda as a Member of the RNC Platform Committee," Trump wrote. The announcement came after Trump's threat to reassert the control of the United States over the Panama Canal. The US administered the canal for several decades and then handed it over to the Central American country in 1999. 'Thank You, President Trump' After Trump's announcement, Cabrera released a statement saying, "As a first-generation American and the son of Cuban exiles, I am profoundly grateful for everything this country has given me." "Thank you, President Trump, for this incredible honour. I am eager and energized to join your administration as the next ambassador to Panama," he wrote. Before becoming the Miami-Dade county commissioner, Cabrera was the director of Trump's 2020 re-election campaign in Florida. In November 2024, Cabrera sponsored an initiative to recognize Hialeah's creation of President Donald J. Trump Avenue and the county commission approved it. In his statement, Cabrera wrote, "I am committed to supporting President Trump's America First vision and will work tirelessly every day to uphold his bold approach to international diplomacy. Together, we will ensure that American strength, freedom, and leadership continue to shape a brighter future for all." (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Kevin Marino Cabrera, Trump's pick for ambassador to Panama?

US President-elect Donald Trump announced Saturday he has appointed television executive Mark Burnett, who produced the tycoon's reality show "The Apprentice," as special envoy to the United Kingdom, one of Washington's closest allies.

"With a distinguished career in television production and business, Mark brings a unique blend of diplomatic acumen and international recognition to this important role," the Republican leader posted on his social media platform Truth Social.

Burnett's role will be different from that of ambassador and does not need US Senate confirmation.

"Mark will work to enhance diplomatic relations, focusing on areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment opportunities and cultural exchanges," Trump said.

Early this month Trump nominated Warren Stephens, a top Republican donor and billionaire investment banker, to be US ambassador to Britain.

The Emmy Award-winning Burnett, who was born in London, is the creator of "Survivor," the reality competition series that became a US television juggernaut after its premiere in 2000. He has also produced other hit shows including "Shark Tank" and "The Voice."

He also served as chairman of MGM Worldwide Television Group from 2018 to 2022.

His biggest success was with "The Apprentice," the American reality program that aired on NBC under various formats for 15 seasons beginning in 2004.

The show was widely credited with reversing Trump's fortunes and making him a household name in the United States before he announced his presidential run in 2015.

"'The Apprentice' mythologized him anew, and on a much bigger scale, turning him into an icon of American success," a profile of Burnett in The New Yorker magazine stated in 2018.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US President-elect Donald Trump announced Saturday he has appointed television executive Mark Burnett, who produced the tycoon's reality show "The Apprentice," as special envoy to the United Kingdom, one of Washington's closest allies.

US President-elect Donald Trump announced Saturday he has appointed television executive Mark Burnett, who produced the tycoon's reality show "The Apprentice," as special envoy to the United Kingdom, one of Washington's closest allies. "With a distinguished career in television production and business, Mark brings a unique blend of diplomatic acumen and international recognition to this important role," the Republican leader posted on his social media platform Truth Social. Burnett's role will be different from that of ambassador and does not need US Senate confirmation. "Mark will work to enhance diplomatic relations, focusing on areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment opportunities and cultural exchanges," Trump said. Early this month Trump nominated Warren Stephens, a top Republican donor and billionaire investment banker, to be US ambassador to Britain. The Emmy Award-winning Burnett, who was born in London, is the creator of "Survivor," the reality competition series that became a US television juggernaut after its premiere in 2000. He has also produced other hit shows including "Shark Tank" and "The Voice." He also served as chairman of MGM Worldwide Television Group from 2018 to 2022. His biggest success was with "The Apprentice," the American reality program that aired on NBC under various formats for 15 seasons beginning in 2004. The show was widely credited with reversing Trump's fortunes and making him a household name in the United States before he announced his presidential run in 2015. "'The Apprentice' mythologized him anew, and on a much bigger scale, turning him into an icon of American success," a profile of Burnett in The New Yorker magazine stated in 2018. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Donald Trump taps 'Apprentice' producer as special envoy to UK

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