Joe Biden's Last Days In Office Fading Away With Little Attention. Watch to know more!

USA News: Biden's Last Days In Office Fading Away With Little To No Attention | Race To Power

USA News: Joe Biden's Last Days In Office Fading Away With Little Attention

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), who found evidence that a Chinese lab leak caused COVID-19, was "silenced" and was not allowed to present the findings from the August 2021 report to US President Joe Biden, The New York Post reported.&nbsp;
The report concluded that the virus behind COVID-19 was "probably not genetically engineered".&nbsp;
During that time, a popular theory emerged, suggesting that the virus spread from a bat at a Wuhan wet market, the place where the virus was first reported in 2019.&nbsp;
President Biden ordered an inquiry in May 2021 by US intelligence agencies and national laboratories. The National Intelligence Council (NIC), a body of senior intelligence officers organised the review, in which the findings were presented by Avril Haines, the director of national intelligence (DNI), and two of her senior analysts, to President Biden and his top aides.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-lab-leak-likely-behind-covid-pandemic-finds-us-investigation-780981" rel="dofollow">Also read: Wuhan lab leak likely behind Covid pandemic, finds US investigation STORY HIGHLIGHTS</a>
Jason Bannan, a former senior scientist at the FBI, said that he is surprised that the findings were not presented to the president, given the agency's confidence in its assessment.&nbsp;
Bannan, a microbiologist and former senior FBI scientist, spent much of his life investigating the origins of COVID-19, along with the FBI.
He was excluded from a key National Intelligence Council (NIC) briefing with US President Biden, The New York Post reported.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-likely-to-pick-john-hopkins-surgeon-covid-mandate-martin-makary-to-lead-fda-say-sources-778076" rel="dofollow">Also read: Trump likely to pick John Hopkins surgeon, COVID mandate critic Martin Makary to lead FDA, say sources</a>
&ldquo;The scientists who had the subject matter expertise were silenced,&rdquo; a source said according to the Post, adding that the US President and other officials were "completely unwitting" about the evidence.&nbsp;
Bannan also stressed that the FBI was the only agency that firmly believed the virus likely originated from a laboratory, yet it wasn&rsquo;t invited to share its findings.&nbsp;
<h2>'Surprising that White House didn't ask'</h2>
&ldquo;Being the only agency that assessed that a laboratory origin was more likely, and the agency that expressed the highest level of confidence in its analysis of the source of the pandemic, we anticipated the FBI would be asked to attend the briefing,&rdquo; Bannan said.
&nbsp;&ldquo;I find it surprising that the White House didn&rsquo;t ask," he added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sent-covid-test-kits-to-putin-while-americans-died-explosive-new-book-reveals-his-shocking-betrayal-765783" rel="dofollow">Also read: Trump sent COVID test kits to Putin while Americans died? Explosive new book reveals his shocking betrayal</a>
Meanwhile, whistleblower Lt. Col. Joseph Murphy said that federal grant documents outlining a "blueprint" for engineering viruses like SARS-CoV-2 were inappropriately classified.
Bannan has now emphasised the need to reexamine what was left out of the intelligence community&rsquo;s review.&nbsp;
&ldquo;What ended up on the intelligence community&rsquo;s cutting-room floor needs to be re-examined," he said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Jason Bannan, a former senior scientist at the FBI, said that he is surprised that the findings were not presented to the president, given the agency's confidence in its assessment. 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), who found evidence that a Chinese lab leak caused COVID-19, was "silenced" and was not allowed to present the findings from the August 2021 report to US President Joe Biden, The New York Post reported. The report concluded that the virus behind COVID-19 was "probably not genetically engineered". During that time, a popular theory emerged, suggesting that the virus spread from a bat at a Wuhan wet market, the place where the virus was first reported in 2019. President Biden ordered an inquiry in May 2021 by US intelligence agencies and national laboratories. The National Intelligence Council (NIC), a body of senior intelligence officers organised the review, in which the findings were presented by Avril Haines, the director of national intelligence (DNI), and two of her senior analysts, to President Biden and his top aides. Also read: Wuhan lab leak likely behind Covid pandemic, finds US investigation STORY HIGHLIGHTS Jason Bannan, a former senior scientist at the FBI, said that he is surprised that the findings were not presented to the president, given the agency's confidence in its assessment. Bannan, a microbiologist and former senior FBI scientist, spent much of his life investigating the origins of COVID-19, along with the FBI. He was excluded from a key National Intelligence Council (NIC) briefing with US President Biden, The New York Post reported. Also read: Trump likely to pick John Hopkins surgeon, COVID mandate critic Martin Makary to lead FDA, say sources “The scientists who had the subject matter expertise were silenced,” a source said according to the Post, adding that the US President and other officials were "completely unwitting" about the evidence. Bannan also stressed that the FBI was the only agency that firmly believed the virus likely originated from a laboratory, yet it wasn’t invited to share its findings. 'Surprising that White House didn't ask' “Being the only agency that assessed that a laboratory origin was more likely, and the agency that expressed the highest level of confidence in its analysis of the source of the pandemic, we anticipated the FBI would be asked to attend the briefing,” Bannan said. “I find it surprising that the White House didn’t ask," he added. Also read: Trump sent COVID test kits to Putin while Americans died? Explosive new book reveals his shocking betrayal Meanwhile, whistleblower Lt. Col. Joseph Murphy said that federal grant documents outlining a "blueprint" for engineering viruses like SARS-CoV-2 were inappropriately classified. Bannan has now emphasised the need to reexamine what was left out of the intelligence community’s review. “What ended up on the intelligence community’s cutting-room floor needs to be re-examined," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

US spy chiefs 'silenced' FBI from briefing Joe Biden about COVID lab leak evidence: Report

Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is "striving" to end the conflict in Ukraine. The Russian President mentioned that the government is ready to deploy intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missiles or other more powerful intermediate-range weapons if necessary.

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin open to peace talks with Ukraine in Slovakia

Florid
US President-elect Donald Trump has vowed that he will direct the US Justice Department to "vigorously" pursue the death penalty for perpetrators once he takes charge.
Just days after President Joe Biden granted pardon to 37 death row inmates, Trump, in a post on Truth Social, said that as soon as he is inaugurated in January 2025, he will issue the order to protect Americans from the "monsters".
<h2>What did Trump say?</h2>
Trump, on his social media platform, vowed "As soon as I am inaugurated, I will direct the Justice Department to vigorously pursue the death penalty to protect American families and children from violent rapists, murderers, and monsters."
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">Who are the three death row inmates Joe Biden didn't pardon? Here's all you need to know</a>
"We will be a Nation of Law and Order again!," he stressed.
<h2>Can he reverse the pardons?</h2>
No, incoming president Donald Trump cannot change or reverse the clemency granted by the incumbent president.
According to Article II, Section 2 of the US Constitution, the POTUS "shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment." These pardons cannot be overturned, by a court, Congress or another President for that matter.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-good-conscience-us-president-biden-commutes-37-out-of-40-federal-death-row-sentences-as-term-nears-end-786267" target="_blank">‘In good conscience,’ US President Biden commutes 37 out of 40 federal death row sentences as term nears end</a>
<h2>Biden's clemency</h2>
US President Biden on Monday (Dec 23) commuted the death sentences of 37 of the 40 inmates on federal death row in the country. 
The crimes of the 37 convicts who had their death sentences "reclassified from execution to life without the possibility of parole" included murder, kidnapping and shooting, yet they received clemency.
In a statement, he said, “Make no mistake: I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts, and ache for all the families who have suffered unimaginable and irreparable loss.”
"But guided by my conscience and my experience as a public defender, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, vice president, and now president, I am more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level. In good conscience, I cannot stand back and let a new administration resume executions that I halted."
However, three convicts, Dylann Roof, a white Supremacist, who was behind the Charleston church shooting of 2015; Dzhokhar "Jahar" Anzorovich Tsarnaev, who along with his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, carried out the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013; and Robert Gregory Bowers is the perpetrator behind the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting were not part of Biden's clemency.
(With inputs from agencies)

Trump, on his social media platform, vowed: "As soon as I am inaugurated, I will direct the Justice Department to vigorously pursue the death penalty to protect American families and children from violent rapists, murderers, and monsters"



Florid US President-elect Donald Trump has vowed that he will direct the US Justice Department to "vigorously" pursue the death penalty for perpetrators once he takes charge. Just days after President Joe Biden granted pardon to 37 death row inmates, Trump, in a post on Truth Social, said that as soon as he is inaugurated in January 2025, he will issue the order to protect Americans from the "monsters". What did Trump say? Trump, on his social media platform, vowed "As soon as I am inaugurated, I will direct the Justice Department to vigorously pursue the death penalty to protect American families and children from violent rapists, murderers, and monsters." Also read | Who are the three death row inmates Joe Biden didn't pardon? Here's all you need to know "We will be a Nation of Law and Order again!," he stressed. Can he reverse the pardons? No, incoming president Donald Trump cannot change or reverse the clemency granted by the incumbent president. According to Article II, Section 2 of the US Constitution, the POTUS "shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment." These pardons cannot be overturned, by a court, Congress or another President for that matter. Also read | ‘In good conscience,’ US President Biden commutes 37 out of 40 federal death row sentences as term nears end Biden's clemency US President Biden on Monday (Dec 23) commuted the death sentences of 37 of the 40 inmates on federal death row in the country. The crimes of the 37 convicts who had their death sentences "reclassified from execution to life without the possibility of parole" included murder, kidnapping and shooting, yet they received clemency. In a statement, he said, “Make no mistake: I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts, and ache for all the families who have suffered unimaginable and irreparable loss.” "But guided by my conscience and my experience as a public defender, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, vice president, and now president, I am more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level. In good conscience, I cannot stand back and let a new administration resume executions that I halted." However, three convicts, Dylann Roof, a white Supremacist, who was behind the Charleston church shooting of 2015; Dzhokhar "Jahar" Anzorovich Tsarnaev, who along with his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, carried out the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013; and Robert Gregory Bowers is the perpetrator behind the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting were not part of Biden's clemency. (With inputs from agencies)

Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously'

In a significant legislative move, President Joe Biden signed 50 bills into law this Christmas week, including a measure that formally designates the bald eagle as the United States' national bird. Long recognised as a symbol of American power and strength, the bald eagle has graced the Great Seal of the United States since 1782 but was never officially codified as the national bird—until now.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-trump-overturn-bidens-pardons-president-elect-vows-to-pursue-death-penalty-vigorously-786624">Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously'</a>

The new legislation amends the United States Code to correct this oversight, giving legal recognition to what many had long assumed was an established fact. The bald eagle, distinguished by its white head, yellow beak, and brown body, has been a prominent emblem of US&nbsp;sovereignty, appearing on military insignias, the presidential flag, and even U.S. currency.

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Bipartisan legislation designating the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States will now be headed to President Bident to be signed into law, following today's unanimous passage in the House by voice vote. The Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent in July. 🦅🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/ho1tSwcUgz">https://t.co/ho1tSwcUgz</a> <a href="https://t.co/bvrSunUm5M">pic.twitter.com/bvrSunUm5M</a>
— Craig Caplan (@CraigCaplan) <a href="https://twitter.com/CraigCaplan/status/1868774272891863502?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Significance of the move</h2>

The bald eagle is the symbol of America's values and independence. It is native to North America and has been featured on the Great Seal alongside an olive branch, arrows, and the motto “E Pluribus Unum.” Despite its ubiquity, the bird’s status as the national bird had never been formalised.

This bird appears on various emblems, including those of the US&nbsp;Air Force, the Great Seal, and the US&nbsp;Navy.

<img alt="US seals" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7f5636b-707b-406f-ae88-bc967ac46d9e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20-%202024-12-25T120848.727.jpg" />

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-slams-israel-for-brazen-admission-of-killing-hamas-leader-haniyeh-calls-it-heinous-crime-786603">Iran slams Israel for 'brazen admission' of killing Hamas leader Haniyeh, calls it 'heinous crime'</a>

By officially recognising the bird, the US&nbsp;underscores its commitment to preserving its heritage and natural treasures.

Interestingly, founding father Benjamin Franklin once criticized the bald eagle in a letter, calling it a "bird of bad moral character." Moreover, his preferred national bird was Turkey. Nevertheless, the bird has become synonymous with American identity.

The US&nbsp;Fish &amp; Wildlife Service's 2020 report estimates the bald eagle population at approximately 316,700 individuals, including 71,400 nesting pairs. This represents a fourfold increase compared to the data collected in 2009.

<h2>Other legislative highlights</h2>

On Christmas Eve, President Joe Biden signed 50 diverse bills into law, covering a wide range of topics. Key highlights include:

Legislation (H.R. 5646) establishing the first-ever federal anti-hazing standards to address violence and deaths occurring on higher education campuses around the country.

A measure (S. 1351) supported by Paris Hilton aimed at addressing child abuse in institutional facilities for at-risk youth.

The Eliminate Useless Reports Act (H.R. 5301), which would curtail the number of outdated and unnecessary reports coming out of federal agencies.

A measure (S. 932) preventing members of Congress from collecting their pensions if convicted of certain crimes.

A bill (H.R. 663) aimed at boosting tools for Native American tribes to combat child abuse and family violence.

Legislation (S. 3998) to convert temporary judicial posts in Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina, and Texas into permanent ones.

A measure (S. 4077)—opposed by several dozen House Republicans—to name a post office in California after the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D).

S. 5314, which names a Veterans Affairs facility in Oklahoma after the late Sen. James Inhofe (R).

Earlier this month, Biden vetoed a bill to add 66 judges to understaffed federal courts, commuted the sentences of 37 federal death-row inmates to life without parole, and granted a full pardon to his son, Hunter Biden.

<h2>A push to the finish line</h2>

As Biden’s term winds down ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, this flurry of activity reflects his efforts to cement key priorities and address long-standing issues before leaving office.

In a significant legislative move, President Joe Biden signed 50 bills into law this Christmas week, including a measure that formally designates the bald eagle as the United States' national bird.

In a significant legislative move, President Joe Biden signed 50 bills into law this Christmas week, including a measure that formally designates the bald eagle as the United States' national bird. Long recognised as a symbol of American power and strength, the bald eagle has graced the Great Seal of the United States since 1782 but was never officially codified as the national bird—until now. Also read | Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously' The new legislation amends the United States Code to correct this oversight, giving legal recognition to what many had long assumed was an established fact. The bald eagle, distinguished by its white head, yellow beak, and brown body, has been a prominent emblem of US sovereignty, appearing on military insignias, the presidential flag, and even U.S. currency. Bipartisan legislation designating the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States will now be headed to President Bident to be signed into law, following today's unanimous passage in the House by voice vote. The Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent in July. 🦅🇺🇸 https://t.co/ho1tSwcUgz pic.twitter.com/bvrSunUm5M — Craig Caplan (@CraigCaplan) December 16, 2024 × Significance of the move The bald eagle is the symbol of America's values and independence. It is native to North America and has been featured on the Great Seal alongside an olive branch, arrows, and the motto “E Pluribus Unum.” Despite its ubiquity, the bird’s status as the national bird had never been formalised. This bird appears on various emblems, including those of the US Air Force, the Great Seal, and the US Navy. Also read | Iran slams Israel for 'brazen admission' of killing Hamas leader Haniyeh, calls it 'heinous crime' By officially recognising the bird, the US underscores its commitment to preserving its heritage and natural treasures. Interestingly, founding father Benjamin Franklin once criticized the bald eagle in a letter, calling it a "bird of bad moral character." Moreover, his preferred national bird was Turkey. Nevertheless, the bird has become synonymous with American identity. The US Fish & Wildlife Service's 2020 report estimates the bald eagle population at approximately 316,700 individuals, including 71,400 nesting pairs. This represents a fourfold increase compared to the data collected in 2009. Other legislative highlights On Christmas Eve, President Joe Biden signed 50 diverse bills into law, covering a wide range of topics. Key highlights include: Legislation (H.R. 5646) establishing the first-ever federal anti-hazing standards to address violence and deaths occurring on higher education campuses around the country. A measure (S. 1351) supported by Paris Hilton aimed at addressing child abuse in institutional facilities for at-risk youth. The Eliminate Useless Reports Act (H.R. 5301), which would curtail the number of outdated and unnecessary reports coming out of federal agencies. A measure (S. 932) preventing members of Congress from collecting their pensions if convicted of certain crimes. A bill (H.R. 663) aimed at boosting tools for Native American tribes to combat child abuse and family violence. Legislation (S. 3998) to convert temporary judicial posts in Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina, and Texas into permanent ones. A measure (S. 4077)—opposed by several dozen House Republicans—to name a post office in California after the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D). S. 5314, which names a Veterans Affairs facility in Oklahoma after the late Sen. James Inhofe (R). Earlier this month, Biden vetoed a bill to add 66 judges to understaffed federal courts, commuted the sentences of 37 federal death-row inmates to life without parole, and granted a full pardon to his son, Hunter Biden. A push to the finish line As Biden’s term winds down ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, this flurry of activity reflects his efforts to cement key priorities and address long-standing issues before leaving office.

Bald Eagle declared US national bird as Biden enacts 50 new laws

Washington, United States
In a significant legislative move, President Joe Biden signed 50 bills into law this Christmas week, including a measure that formally designates the bald eagle as the United States' national bird. Long recognised as a symbol of American power and strength, the bald eagle has graced the Great Seal of the United States since 1782 but was never officially codified as the national bird—until now.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-trump-overturn-bidens-pardons-president-elect-vows-to-pursue-death-penalty-vigorously-786624">Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously'</a>
The new legislation amends the United States Code to correct this oversight, giving legal recognition to what many had long assumed was an established fact. The bald eagle, distinguished by its white head, yellow beak, and brown body, has been a prominent emblem of US sovereignty, appearing on military insignias, the presidential flag, and even U.S. currency.
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Bipartisan legislation designating the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States will now be headed to President Bident to be signed into law, following today's unanimous passage in the House by voice vote. The Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent in July. ??? <a href="https://t.co/ho1tSwcUgz">https://t.co/ho1tSwcUgz</a> <a href="https://t.co/bvrSunUm5M">pic.twitter.com/bvrSunUm5M</a>
— Craig Caplan (@CraigCaplan) <a href="https://twitter.com/CraigCaplan/status/1868774272891863502?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Significance of the move</h2>
The bald eagle is the symbol of America's values and independence. It is native to North America and has been featured on the Great Seal alongside an olive branch, arrows, and the motto “E Pluribus Unum.” Despite its ubiquity, the bird’s status as the national bird had never been formalised.
This bird appears on various emblems, including those of the US Air Force, the Great Seal, and the US Navy.
<img alt="US seals" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7f5636b-707b-406f-ae88-bc967ac46d9e" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/sites/default/files/inline-images/New wion - 2024-12-25T120848.727.jpg"/>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-slams-israel-for-brazen-admission-of-killing-hamas-leader-haniyeh-calls-it-heinous-crime-786603">Iran slams Israel for 'brazen admission' of killing Hamas leader Haniyeh, calls it 'heinous crime'</a>
By officially recognising the bird, the US underscores its commitment to preserving its heritage and natural treasures.
Interestingly, founding father Benjamin Franklin once criticized the bald eagle in a letter, calling it a "bird of bad moral character." Moreover, his preferred national bird was Turkey. Nevertheless, the bird has become synonymous with American identity.
The US Fish &amp; Wildlife Service's 2020 report estimates the bald eagle population at approximately 316,700 individuals, including 71,400 nesting pairs. This represents a fourfold increase compared to the data collected in 2009.
<h2>Other legislative highlights</h2>
On Christmas Eve, President Joe Biden signed 50 diverse bills into law, covering a wide range of topics. Key highlights include:
Legislation (H.R. 5646) establishing the first-ever federal anti-hazing standards to address violence and deaths occurring on higher education campuses around the country.
A measure (S. 1351) supported by Paris Hilton aimed at addressing child abuse in institutional facilities for at-risk youth.
The Eliminate Useless Reports Act (H.R. 5301), which would curtail the number of outdated and unnecessary reports coming out of federal agencies.
A measure (S. 932) preventing members of Congress from collecting their pensions if convicted of certain crimes.
A bill (H.R. 663) aimed at boosting tools for Native American tribes to combat child abuse and family violence.
Legislation (S. 3998) to convert temporary judicial posts in Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina, and Texas into permanent ones.
A measure (S. 4077)—opposed by several dozen House Republicans—to name a post office in California after the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D).
S. 5314, which names a Veterans Affairs facility in Oklahoma after the late Sen. James Inhofe (R).
Earlier this month, Biden vetoed a bill to add 66 judges to understaffed federal courts, commuted the sentences of 37 federal death-row inmates to life without parole, and granted a full pardon to his son, Hunter Biden.
<h2>A push to the finish line</h2>
As Biden’s term winds down ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, this flurry of activity reflects his efforts to cement key priorities and address long-standing issues before leaving office.

President Joe Biden capped off Christmas week by signing 50 bills into law, including historic legislation officially declaring the bald eagle as the United States' national bird. Long a symbol of American strength and unity, the bald eagle’s status is now firmly enshrined in law, alongside sweeping measures addressing new anti-hazing standards, child protection laws, and federal reforms



Washington, United States In a significant legislative move, President Joe Biden signed 50 bills into law this Christmas week, including a measure that formally designates the bald eagle as the United States' national bird. Long recognised as a symbol of American power and strength, the bald eagle has graced the Great Seal of the United States since 1782 but was never officially codified as the national bird—until now. Also read | Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously' The new legislation amends the United States Code to correct this oversight, giving legal recognition to what many had long assumed was an established fact. The bald eagle, distinguished by its white head, yellow beak, and brown body, has been a prominent emblem of US sovereignty, appearing on military insignias, the presidential flag, and even U.S. currency. Bipartisan legislation designating the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States will now be headed to President Bident to be signed into law, following today's unanimous passage in the House by voice vote. The Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent in July. ??? https://t.co/ho1tSwcUgz pic.twitter.com/bvrSunUm5M — Craig Caplan (@CraigCaplan) December 16, 2024 × Significance of the move The bald eagle is the symbol of America's values and independence. It is native to North America and has been featured on the Great Seal alongside an olive branch, arrows, and the motto “E Pluribus Unum.” Despite its ubiquity, the bird’s status as the national bird had never been formalised. This bird appears on various emblems, including those of the US Air Force, the Great Seal, and the US Navy. Also read | Iran slams Israel for 'brazen admission' of killing Hamas leader Haniyeh, calls it 'heinous crime' By officially recognising the bird, the US underscores its commitment to preserving its heritage and natural treasures. Interestingly, founding father Benjamin Franklin once criticized the bald eagle in a letter, calling it a "bird of bad moral character." Moreover, his preferred national bird was Turkey. Nevertheless, the bird has become synonymous with American identity. The US Fish & Wildlife Service's 2020 report estimates the bald eagle population at approximately 316,700 individuals, including 71,400 nesting pairs. This represents a fourfold increase compared to the data collected in 2009. Other legislative highlights On Christmas Eve, President Joe Biden signed 50 diverse bills into law, covering a wide range of topics. Key highlights include: Legislation (H.R. 5646) establishing the first-ever federal anti-hazing standards to address violence and deaths occurring on higher education campuses around the country. A measure (S. 1351) supported by Paris Hilton aimed at addressing child abuse in institutional facilities for at-risk youth. The Eliminate Useless Reports Act (H.R. 5301), which would curtail the number of outdated and unnecessary reports coming out of federal agencies. A measure (S. 932) preventing members of Congress from collecting their pensions if convicted of certain crimes. A bill (H.R. 663) aimed at boosting tools for Native American tribes to combat child abuse and family violence. Legislation (S. 3998) to convert temporary judicial posts in Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina, and Texas into permanent ones. A measure (S. 4077)—opposed by several dozen House Republicans—to name a post office in California after the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D). S. 5314, which names a Veterans Affairs facility in Oklahoma after the late Sen. James Inhofe (R). Earlier this month, Biden vetoed a bill to add 66 judges to understaffed federal courts, commuted the sentences of 37 federal death-row inmates to life without parole, and granted a full pardon to his son, Hunter Biden. A push to the finish line As Biden’s term winds down ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, this flurry of activity reflects his efforts to cement key priorities and address long-standing issues before leaving office.

President-elect Donald Trump said on Tuesday he will direct the Department of Justice to “vigorously pursue the death penalty” after President Joe Biden on Monday commuted the death sentences of 37 federal inmates to life in prison. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump: Will Ask Justice Department To Pursue Death Penalty

Washington, US
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US President Joe Biden on Monday (Dec 23) vetoed, opens new tab legislation to add 66 new judges to understaffed federal courts nationally, a once widely bipartisan measure that would have been the first major expansion of the federal judiciary since 1990.
The JUDGES Act, initially supported by many members of both parties, would have increased the number of trial court judges in 25 federal district courts in 13 states including California, Florida and Texas, in six waves every two years through 2035.
Hundreds of judges appointed by presidents of both parties took the rare step of publicly advocating for the bill, saying federal caseloads have increased by more than 30% since Congress last passed legislation to comprehensively expand the judiciary.
But the outgoing Democratic president made good on a <a href="https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/biden-vows-veto-bill-expanding-us-judiciary-after-trumps-win-2024-12-10/" target="_blank">veto threat</a> issued two days before the bill <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-house-passes-bill-expand-judiciary-despite-biden-veto-threat-2024-12-12/" target="_blank">passed</a> the Republican-led House of Representatives on Dec 12 on a 236-173 vote.
In a message to the Senate formally rejecting the bill, Biden said it "hastily" creates new judgeships without addressing key questions about whether new judges were needed and how they would be allocated nationally.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-removes-ban-on-whatsapp-and-google-play-state-media-confirms-786567">Iran removes ban on WhatsApp and Google Play, state media confirms</a>
Republican Senator Todd Young of Indiana, who sponsored the bill in the Senate, said in response that the veto was "partisan politics at its worst."
By staggering the new judgeships over three presidential administrations, the bill's sponsors had hoped to get around lawmakers' longstanding concerns about creating new vacancies that a president of an opposing party could fill.
It received the Democratic-led Senate's unanimous approval in August. But the bill lingered in the Republican-led House and was only taken up for a vote after Republican President-elect Donald Trump won the Nov. 5 election and the opportunity to name the first batch of 25 judges.
That prompted accusations from top House Democrats, who began to abandon the measure, that their Republican colleagues had broken a central promise of the legislation by having lawmakers approve the bill when no one knew who would appoint the initial wave of judges.
If the bill had been enacted, Trump would have been able to fill 22 permanent and three temporary judgeships over four years in office, on top of the 100-plus judicial appointments he is already expected to make.
Those appointments would allow Trump to further cement his influence on the judiciary. He made 234 judicial appointments during his first term in office, including three members of the U.S. Supreme Court's 6-3 conservative majority.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/makes-no-sense-trump-hits-out-at-biden-for-death-sentence-commutations-786553">'Makes no sense': Trump hits out at Biden for death sentence commutations</a>
Biden on Friday <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/biden-secures-235th-confirmed-judicial-appointee-one-more-than-trump-2024-12-21/" target="_blank">surpassed</a> Trump's total number of judicial appointments with 235, though he named fewer appellate judges and only one U.S. Supreme Court justice during his tenure.
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.

Hundreds of judges appointed by presidents of both parties took the rare step of publicly advocating for the bill, saying federal caseloads have increased by more than 30% since Congress last passed legislation to comprehensively expand the judiciary.



Washington, US US President Joe Biden on Monday (Dec 23) vetoed, opens new tab legislation to add 66 new judges to understaffed federal courts nationally, a once widely bipartisan measure that would have been the first major expansion of the federal judiciary since 1990. The JUDGES Act, initially supported by many members of both parties, would have increased the number of trial court judges in 25 federal district courts in 13 states including California, Florida and Texas, in six waves every two years through 2035. Hundreds of judges appointed by presidents of both parties took the rare step of publicly advocating for the bill, saying federal caseloads have increased by more than 30% since Congress last passed legislation to comprehensively expand the judiciary. But the outgoing Democratic president made good on a veto threat issued two days before the bill passed the Republican-led House of Representatives on Dec 12 on a 236-173 vote. In a message to the Senate formally rejecting the bill, Biden said it "hastily" creates new judgeships without addressing key questions about whether new judges were needed and how they would be allocated nationally. Also read | Iran removes ban on WhatsApp and Google Play, state media confirms Republican Senator Todd Young of Indiana, who sponsored the bill in the Senate, said in response that the veto was "partisan politics at its worst." By staggering the new judgeships over three presidential administrations, the bill's sponsors had hoped to get around lawmakers' longstanding concerns about creating new vacancies that a president of an opposing party could fill. It received the Democratic-led Senate's unanimous approval in August. But the bill lingered in the Republican-led House and was only taken up for a vote after Republican President-elect Donald Trump won the Nov. 5 election and the opportunity to name the first batch of 25 judges. That prompted accusations from top House Democrats, who began to abandon the measure, that their Republican colleagues had broken a central promise of the legislation by having lawmakers approve the bill when no one knew who would appoint the initial wave of judges. If the bill had been enacted, Trump would have been able to fill 22 permanent and three temporary judgeships over four years in office, on top of the 100-plus judicial appointments he is already expected to make. Those appointments would allow Trump to further cement his influence on the judiciary. He made 234 judicial appointments during his first term in office, including three members of the U.S. Supreme Court's 6-3 conservative majority. Also read | 'Makes no sense': Trump hits out at Biden for death sentence commutations Biden on Friday surpassed Trump's total number of judicial appointments with 235, though he named fewer appellate judges and only one U.S. Supreme Court justice during his tenure. 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.

Biden delivers on threat to veto bill to expand US judiciary

Washington, US
US President-elect Donald Trump blasted President Joe Biden for commuting the death sentences of almost every American federal prisoner. 
The outgoing US president announced in his final month in the White House that he was converting the death sentences of 37 inmates out of a total of 40 who are waiting for federal execution to life without the possibility of parole. Nine inmates among them were convicted of murdering fellow prisoners, and five are also murder convicts. 
The Republican posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, on Tuesday (Dec 24) saying, "Joe Biden just commuted the Death Sentence on 37 of the worst killers in our Country." Trump further said that if one would hear the acts of each inmate, they would not believe that Biden did what he did on Monday. 
Watch | Donald Trump's Ally Gaetz Paid For Sex &amp; Drugs While In Office, Reveals Report
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"Makes no sense. Relatives and friends are further devastated. They can't believe this is happening!" Trump wrote in his post on Truth Social. 
But Biden did not pardon the other three inmates. 
Here's what you need to know about the three individuals that were not part of Biden's clemency:
<h2>Dylann Roof</h2>
Dylann Roof, a white Supremacist, was behind the Charleston church shooting of 2015.
On June 17, 2015, during a Bible study, Roof, who was 21 years old at the time, shot dead nine people and injured a 10th one at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. 
All of Roof's victims were African Americans.
When caught, he confessed that he carried out the shooting in hopes of igniting a race war. 
On December 15, 2016, he was convicted in a federal court on 33 charges, including hate crimes, and subsequently, on January 11, 2017, he was sentenced to death for his crimes. 
<h2>Dzhokhar Tsarnaev</h2>
Dzhokhar "Jahar" Anzorovich Tsarnaev, along with his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, was behind the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013.
On April 15, 2013, the two brothers planted a series of homemade pressure cooker bombs near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Their attack claimed the lives of three people, while 264 others were injured. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-man-of-the-hole-died-but-what-about-his-land-786529">Brazil's 'man of the hole' died but what about his land?</a> 
Later, in a getaway attempt, the two brothers killed MIT Police Officer Sean Collier while attempting to steal his weapon.
In the ensuing shootout, Tamerlan was killed and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was injured.
He was charged with the usage of a weapon of mass destruction resulting in death, in addition to aiding and abetting murder. On May 15, 2015, the jury sentenced 21-year-old Dzhokhar to death by lethal injection.
<h2>Robert Bowers</h2>
Robert Gregory Bowers is the perpetrator behind the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, an antisemitic terrorist attack that took place at the Tree of Life—Or L'Simcha Congregation synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2018.
On October 27, 2018, during the Shabbat morning services, he killed 11 people and wounded six, including several Holocaust survivors.
The attack is considered the deadliest on a local Jewish community in American history so far, second only to the 2019 Jersey City shooting.
Bowers, 46 years old at the time of his crime, was sentenced to death by legal injection last year, on August 3, 2023.
(With inputs from agencies)

The outgoing US president announced in his final month in the White House that he was converting the death sentences of 37 inmates out of a total of 40 who are waiting for federal execution to life without the possibility of parole. Nine inmates among them were convicted of murdering fellow prisoners, and five are also murder convicts.



Washington, US US President-elect Donald Trump blasted President Joe Biden for commuting the death sentences of almost every American federal prisoner. The outgoing US president announced in his final month in the White House that he was converting the death sentences of 37 inmates out of a total of 40 who are waiting for federal execution to life without the possibility of parole. Nine inmates among them were convicted of murdering fellow prisoners, and five are also murder convicts. The Republican posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, on Tuesday (Dec 24) saying, "Joe Biden just commuted the Death Sentence on 37 of the worst killers in our Country." Trump further said that if one would hear the acts of each inmate, they would not believe that Biden did what he did on Monday. Watch | Donald Trump's Ally Gaetz Paid For Sex & Drugs While In Office, Reveals Report "Makes no sense. Relatives and friends are further devastated. They can't believe this is happening!" Trump wrote in his post on Truth Social. But Biden did not pardon the other three inmates. Here's what you need to know about the three individuals that were not part of Biden's clemency: Dylann Roof Dylann Roof, a white Supremacist, was behind the Charleston church shooting of 2015. On June 17, 2015, during a Bible study, Roof, who was 21 years old at the time, shot dead nine people and injured a 10th one at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. All of Roof's victims were African Americans. When caught, he confessed that he carried out the shooting in hopes of igniting a race war. On December 15, 2016, he was convicted in a federal court on 33 charges, including hate crimes, and subsequently, on January 11, 2017, he was sentenced to death for his crimes. Dzhokhar Tsarnaev Dzhokhar "Jahar" Anzorovich Tsarnaev, along with his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, was behind the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013. On April 15, 2013, the two brothers planted a series of homemade pressure cooker bombs near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Their attack claimed the lives of three people, while 264 others were injured. Also read | Brazil's 'man of the hole' died but what about his land? Later, in a getaway attempt, the two brothers killed MIT Police Officer Sean Collier while attempting to steal his weapon. In the ensuing shootout, Tamerlan was killed and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was injured. He was charged with the usage of a weapon of mass destruction resulting in death, in addition to aiding and abetting murder. On May 15, 2015, the jury sentenced 21-year-old Dzhokhar to death by lethal injection. Robert Bowers Robert Gregory Bowers is the perpetrator behind the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, an antisemitic terrorist attack that took place at the Tree of Life—Or L'Simcha Congregation synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2018. On October 27, 2018, during the Shabbat morning services, he killed 11 people and wounded six, including several Holocaust survivors. The attack is considered the deadliest on a local Jewish community in American history so far, second only to the 2019 Jersey City shooting. Bowers, 46 years old at the time of his crime, was sentenced to death by legal injection last year, on August 3, 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

'Makes no sense': Trump hits out at Biden for death sentence commutations

Washington, United States
US President Joe Biden on Monday (Dec 23) commuted the death sentences of 37 of the 40 inmates on federal death row in the country. 
The crimes of the 37 convicts who had their death sentences "reclassified from execution to life without the possibility of parole" included murder, kidnapping and shootings, yet they received clemency. This begs the question: why were three death row inmates left to meet the grim fate?
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-good-conscience-us-president-biden-commutes-37-out-of-40-federal-death-row-sentences-as-term-nears-end-786267">‘In good conscience,’ US President Biden commutes 37 out of 40 federal death row sentences as term nears end</a>
Here's what you need to know about the three individuals that were not part of Biden's clemency:
<h2>Dylann Roof</h2>
Dylann Roof, a white Supremacist, was behind the Charleston church shooting of 2015.
On June 17, 2015, during a Bible study, Roof, who was 21 years old at the time, shot dead nine people and injured a 10th one at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. 
<img alt="Dylann Roof" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="03924478-4ae8-4a66-b85c-6a8cb7817879" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/sites/default/files/inline-images/New wion - 2024-12-24T082859.905.jpg"/>
(Image courtesy: Wikipedia)
All of Roof's victims were African Americans.
When caught, he confessed that he carried out the shooting in hopes of igniting a race war. 
On December 15, 2016, he was convicted in a federal court on 33 charges, including hate crimes, and subsequently, on January 11, 2017, he was sentenced to death for his crimes. 
<h2>Dzhokhar Tsarnaev</h2>
Dzhokhar "Jahar" Anzorovich Tsarnaev, along with his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, was behind the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013.
On April 15, 2013, the two brothers planted a series of home-made pressure cooker bombs near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Their attack claimed the lives of three people, while 264 others were injured. 
<img alt="Dzhokhar Tsarnaev" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1715bc0e-d503-4e34-af47-92237ef4c093" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/sites/default/files/inline-images/New wion - 2024-12-24T085320.202.jpg"/>
(Image courtesy: Wikipedia)
Later, in a getaway attempt, the two brothers killed MIT Police Officer Sean Collier while attempting to steal his weapon.
In the ensuing shoot-out, Tamerlan was killed and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was injured.
He was charged with usage of a weapon of mass destruction resulting in death, in addition to aiding and abetting murder. On May 15, 2015, the jury sentenced 21-year-old Dzhokhar to death by lethal injection.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-subway-horror-illegal-immigrant-sebastian-zapeta-charged-for-setting-sleeping-woman-on-fire-786328">New York subway horror: Illegal immigrant Sebastian Zapeta charged for setting sleeping woman on fire </a> 
<h2>Robert Bowers</h2>
Robert Gregory Bowers is the perpetrator behind the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, an antisemitic terrorist attack that took place at the Tree of Life—Or L'Simcha Congregation synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2018.
On October 27, 2018, during the Shabbat morning services, he killed 11 people and wounded six, including several Holocaust survivors.
<img alt="Robert Bowers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59c26bb5-4805-4e99-a94d-baf16aeb32b7" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/sites/default/files/inline-images/New wion - 2024-12-24T090418.263.jpg"/>
(Image courtesy: AFP)
The attack is considered the deadliest on a local Jewish community in American history so far, second only to the 2019 Jersey City shooting.
Bowers, 46-year-old at the time of his crime, was sentenced to death by legal injection last year, on August 3, 2023.
(With inputs from agencies)

Why were three out of 40 death row inmates left to meet the grim fate? Here's what you need to know about the three individuals that were not part of Joe Biden's clemency



Washington, United States US President Joe Biden on Monday (Dec 23) commuted the death sentences of 37 of the 40 inmates on federal death row in the country. The crimes of the 37 convicts who had their death sentences "reclassified from execution to life without the possibility of parole" included murder, kidnapping and shootings, yet they received clemency. This begs the question: why were three death row inmates left to meet the grim fate? Also read | ‘In good conscience,’ US President Biden commutes 37 out of 40 federal death row sentences as term nears end Here's what you need to know about the three individuals that were not part of Biden's clemency: Dylann Roof Dylann Roof, a white Supremacist, was behind the Charleston church shooting of 2015. On June 17, 2015, during a Bible study, Roof, who was 21 years old at the time, shot dead nine people and injured a 10th one at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. (Image courtesy: Wikipedia) All of Roof's victims were African Americans. When caught, he confessed that he carried out the shooting in hopes of igniting a race war. On December 15, 2016, he was convicted in a federal court on 33 charges, including hate crimes, and subsequently, on January 11, 2017, he was sentenced to death for his crimes. Dzhokhar Tsarnaev Dzhokhar "Jahar" Anzorovich Tsarnaev, along with his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, was behind the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013. On April 15, 2013, the two brothers planted a series of home-made pressure cooker bombs near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Their attack claimed the lives of three people, while 264 others were injured. (Image courtesy: Wikipedia) Later, in a getaway attempt, the two brothers killed MIT Police Officer Sean Collier while attempting to steal his weapon. In the ensuing shoot-out, Tamerlan was killed and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was injured. He was charged with usage of a weapon of mass destruction resulting in death, in addition to aiding and abetting murder. On May 15, 2015, the jury sentenced 21-year-old Dzhokhar to death by lethal injection. Also read | New York subway horror: Illegal immigrant Sebastian Zapeta charged for setting sleeping woman on fire Robert Bowers Robert Gregory Bowers is the perpetrator behind the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, an antisemitic terrorist attack that took place at the Tree of Life—Or L'Simcha Congregation synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2018. On October 27, 2018, during the Shabbat morning services, he killed 11 people and wounded six, including several Holocaust survivors. (Image courtesy: AFP) The attack is considered the deadliest on a local Jewish community in American history so far, second only to the 2019 Jersey City shooting. Bowers, 46-year-old at the time of his crime, was sentenced to death by legal injection last year, on August 3, 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Who are the three death row inmates Joe Biden didn't pardon? Here's all you need to know

US President Joe Biden on Monday (Dec 23) vetoed, opens new tab legislation to add 66 new judges to understaffed federal courts nationally, a once widely bipartisan measure that would have been the first major expansion of the federal judiciary since 1990.

US President Joe Biden on Monday (Dec 23) vetoed, opens new tab legislation to add 66 new judges to understaffed federal courts nationally, a once widely bipartisan measure that would have been the first major expansion of the federal judiciary since 1990. The JUDGES Act, initially supported by many members of both parties, would have increased the number of trial court judges in 25 federal district courts in 13 states including California, Florida and Texas, in six waves every two years through 2035. Hundreds of judges appointed by presidents of both parties took the rare step of publicly advocating for the bill, saying federal caseloads have increased by more than 30% since Congress last passed legislation to comprehensively expand the judiciary. But the outgoing Democratic president made good on a veto threat issued two days before the bill passed the Republican-led House of Representatives on Dec 12 on a 236-173 vote. In a message to the Senate formally rejecting the bill, Biden said it "hastily" creates new judgeships without addressing key questions about whether new judges were needed and how they would be allocated nationally. Also read | Iran removes ban on WhatsApp and Google Play, state media confirms Republican Senator Todd Young of Indiana, who sponsored the bill in the Senate, said in response that the veto was "partisan politics at its worst." By staggering the new judgeships over three presidential administrations, the bill's sponsors had hoped to get around lawmakers' longstanding concerns about creating new vacancies that a president of an opposing party could fill. It received the Democratic-led Senate's unanimous approval in August. But the bill lingered in the Republican-led House and was only taken up for a vote after Republican President-elect Donald Trump won the Nov. 5 election and the opportunity to name the first batch of 25 judges. That prompted accusations from top House Democrats, who began to abandon the measure, that their Republican colleagues had broken a central promise of the legislation by having lawmakers approve the bill when no one knew who would appoint the initial wave of judges. If the bill had been enacted, Trump would have been able to fill 22 permanent and three temporary judgeships over four years in office, on top of the 100-plus judicial appointments he is already expected to make. Those appointments would allow Trump to further cement his influence on the judiciary. He made 234 judicial appointments during his first term in office, including three members of the U.S. Supreme Court's 6-3 conservative majority. Also read | 'Makes no sense': Trump hits out at Biden for death sentence commutations Biden on Friday surpassed Trump's total number of judicial appointments with 235, though he named fewer appellate judges and only one U.S. Supreme Court justice during his tenure. 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 blasted President Joe Biden for commuting the death sentences of almost every American federal prisoner.&nbsp;

The outgoing US president announced in his final month in the White House that he was converting the death sentences of 37 inmates out of a total of 40 who are waiting for federal execution to life without the possibility of parole. Nine inmates among them were convicted of murdering fellow prisoners, and five are also murder convicts.&nbsp;

The Republican posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, on Tuesday (Dec 24) saying, "Joe Biden just commuted the Death Sentence on 37 of the worst killers in our Country." Trump further said that if one would hear the acts of each inmate, they would not believe that Biden did what he did on Monday.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump's Ally Gaetz Paid For Sex &amp; Drugs While In Office, Reveals Report

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trumps-ally-gaetz-paid-for-sex-drugs-while-in-office-reveals-report-786549/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Makes no sense. Relatives and friends are further devastated. They can't believe this is happening!" Trump wrote in his post on Truth Social.&nbsp;

But Biden did not pardon the other three inmates.&nbsp;

Here's what you need to know about the three individuals that were not part of Biden's clemency:

<h2>Dylann Roof</h2>

Dylann Roof, a white Supremacist, was behind the Charleston church shooting of 2015.

On June 17, 2015, during a Bible study, Roof, who was 21 years old at the time, shot dead nine people and injured a 10th one at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina.&nbsp;

All of Roof's victims were African Americans.

When caught, he confessed that he carried out the shooting in hopes of igniting a race war.&nbsp;

On December 15, 2016, he was convicted in a federal court on 33 charges, including hate crimes, and subsequently, on January 11, 2017, he was sentenced to death for his crimes.&nbsp;

<h2>Dzhokhar Tsarnaev</h2>

Dzhokhar "Jahar" Anzorovich Tsarnaev, along with his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, was behind the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013.

On April 15, 2013, the two brothers planted a series of homemade pressure cooker bombs near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Their attack claimed the lives of three people, while 264 others were injured.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-man-of-the-hole-died-but-what-about-his-land-786529">Brazil's 'man of the hole' died but what about his land?</a>&nbsp;

Later, in a getaway attempt, the two brothers killed MIT Police Officer Sean Collier while attempting to steal his weapon.

In the ensuing shootout, Tamerlan was killed and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was injured.

He was charged with the usage of a weapon of mass destruction resulting in death, in addition to aiding and abetting murder. On May 15, 2015, the jury sentenced 21-year-old Dzhokhar to death by lethal injection.

<h2>Robert Bowers</h2>

Robert Gregory Bowers is the perpetrator behind the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, an antisemitic terrorist attack that took place at the Tree of Life—Or L'Simcha Congregation synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2018.

On October 27, 2018, during the Shabbat morning services, he killed 11 people and wounded six, including several Holocaust survivors.

The attack is considered the deadliest on a local Jewish community in American history so far, second only to the 2019 Jersey City shooting.

Bowers, 46 years old at the time of his crime, was sentenced to death by legal injection last year, on August 3, 2023.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President-elect Donald Trump blasted President Joe Biden for commuting the death sentences of almost every American federal prisoner. The outgoing US president announced in his final month in the White House that he was converting the death sentences of 37 inmates out of a total of 40 who are waiting for federal execution to life without the possibility of parole.

US President-elect Donald Trump blasted President Joe Biden for commuting the death sentences of almost every American federal prisoner. The outgoing US president announced in his final month in the White House that he was converting the death sentences of 37 inmates out of a total of 40 who are waiting for federal execution to life without the possibility of parole. Nine inmates among them were convicted of murdering fellow prisoners, and five are also murder convicts. The Republican posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, on Tuesday (Dec 24) saying, "Joe Biden just commuted the Death Sentence on 37 of the worst killers in our Country." Trump further said that if one would hear the acts of each inmate, they would not believe that Biden did what he did on Monday. Watch | Donald Trump's Ally Gaetz Paid For Sex & Drugs While In Office, Reveals Report "Makes no sense. Relatives and friends are further devastated. They can't believe this is happening!" Trump wrote in his post on Truth Social. But Biden did not pardon the other three inmates. Here's what you need to know about the three individuals that were not part of Biden's clemency: Dylann Roof Dylann Roof, a white Supremacist, was behind the Charleston church shooting of 2015. On June 17, 2015, during a Bible study, Roof, who was 21 years old at the time, shot dead nine people and injured a 10th one at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. All of Roof's victims were African Americans. When caught, he confessed that he carried out the shooting in hopes of igniting a race war. On December 15, 2016, he was convicted in a federal court on 33 charges, including hate crimes, and subsequently, on January 11, 2017, he was sentenced to death for his crimes. Dzhokhar Tsarnaev Dzhokhar "Jahar" Anzorovich Tsarnaev, along with his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, was behind the Boston Marathon bombing of 2013. On April 15, 2013, the two brothers planted a series of homemade pressure cooker bombs near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Their attack claimed the lives of three people, while 264 others were injured. Also read | Brazil's 'man of the hole' died but what about his land? Later, in a getaway attempt, the two brothers killed MIT Police Officer Sean Collier while attempting to steal his weapon. In the ensuing shootout, Tamerlan was killed and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was injured. He was charged with the usage of a weapon of mass destruction resulting in death, in addition to aiding and abetting murder. On May 15, 2015, the jury sentenced 21-year-old Dzhokhar to death by lethal injection. Robert Bowers Robert Gregory Bowers is the perpetrator behind the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, an antisemitic terrorist attack that took place at the Tree of Life—Or L'Simcha Congregation synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2018. On October 27, 2018, during the Shabbat morning services, he killed 11 people and wounded six, including several Holocaust survivors. The attack is considered the deadliest on a local Jewish community in American history so far, second only to the 2019 Jersey City shooting. Bowers, 46 years old at the time of his crime, was sentenced to death by legal injection last year, on August 3, 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Washington, United States
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US President Joe Biden has commuted the sentences of 37 out of 40 federal death row prisoners, reducing their punishment to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
With less than a month left in office, Biden faced increasing pressure from opponents of the death penalty to take action and commute the sentences of those awaiting execution at the federal level.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-luigi-mangione-pleads-not-guilty-to-murder-terrorism-charges-786249" target="_blank">UnitedHealthcare CEO murder suspect pleads 'not guilty' to murder charges</a>
This pressure was mostly because of US President-elect Donald Trump's pro-death row stance. Federal executions had been paused in the United States since 2003 until Trump resumed them in July 2020. During his final six months in office, Trump oversaw 13 executions by lethal injection, the highest number carried out by a US president in over 120 years.
In a statement released on Monday, Biden said, “Make no mistake: I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts, and ache for all the families who have suffered unimaginable and irreparable loss.”
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" target="_blank">Matt Gaetz violated state laws with drug use, sex with a minor: Report</a>
He added, “But guided by my conscience and my experience as a public defender, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, vice-president, and now President, I am more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level. In good conscience, I cannot stand back and let a new administration resume executions that I halted.”
Only three inmates will remain on federal death row, including Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, who was involved in the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, and Dylann Roof, who murdered nine Black worshippers at a church in Charleston, South Carolina, in 2015. The third is Robert Bowers, responsible for killing 11 people in a synagogue in Pittsburgh’s Jewish community in 2018.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/absolute-necessity-after-threatening-to-take-back-panama-canal-trump-now-wants-to-buy-greenland-786177" target="_blank">‘We are not for sale,’ Greenland PM rebuffs Trump’s idea of buying the island</a>
The White House said that Biden has issued more commutations at this stage of his presidency than any recent president at the same point in their first term. Earlier this month, he granted clemency to around 1,500 US citizens, the largest number ever in a single day.
Biden has also made history as the first president to grant categorical pardons to individuals convicted of simple marijuana use and possession, as well as to former LGBTQ+ military personnel convicted due to their sexual orientation.
(With inputs from agencies)

In a statement released on Monday, Biden said, “Make no mistake: I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts, and ache for all the families who have suffered unimaginable and irreparable loss.”



Washington, United States US President Joe Biden has commuted the sentences of 37 out of 40 federal death row prisoners, reducing their punishment to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. With less than a month left in office, Biden faced increasing pressure from opponents of the death penalty to take action and commute the sentences of those awaiting execution at the federal level. Also read: UnitedHealthcare CEO murder suspect pleads 'not guilty' to murder charges This pressure was mostly because of US President-elect Donald Trump's pro-death row stance. Federal executions had been paused in the United States since 2003 until Trump resumed them in July 2020. During his final six months in office, Trump oversaw 13 executions by lethal injection, the highest number carried out by a US president in over 120 years. In a statement released on Monday, Biden said, “Make no mistake: I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts, and ache for all the families who have suffered unimaginable and irreparable loss.” Also read: Matt Gaetz violated state laws with drug use, sex with a minor: Report He added, “But guided by my conscience and my experience as a public defender, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, vice-president, and now President, I am more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level. In good conscience, I cannot stand back and let a new administration resume executions that I halted.” Only three inmates will remain on federal death row, including Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, who was involved in the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, and Dylann Roof, who murdered nine Black worshippers at a church in Charleston, South Carolina, in 2015. The third is Robert Bowers, responsible for killing 11 people in a synagogue in Pittsburgh’s Jewish community in 2018. Also read: ‘We are not for sale,’ Greenland PM rebuffs Trump’s idea of buying the island The White House said that Biden has issued more commutations at this stage of his presidency than any recent president at the same point in their first term. Earlier this month, he granted clemency to around 1,500 US citizens, the largest number ever in a single day. Biden has also made history as the first president to grant categorical pardons to individuals convicted of simple marijuana use and possession, as well as to former LGBTQ+ military personnel convicted due to their sexual orientation. (With inputs from agencies)

‘In good conscience,’ US President Biden commutes 37 out of 40 federal death row sentences as term nears end

As the U.S. Prepares for president-elect Donald Trump's administration, his economic policies are already making waves across global markets. Our next report delves into how markets are reacting to trump's incoming leadership. Take a look…

Trump’s Policies Stir Global Market Volatility

As the U.S. Prepares for president-elect Donald Trump's administration, his economic policies are already making waves across global markets.



Our next report delves into how markets are reacting to trump's incoming leadership.



Take a look…



Global leaders on Saturday (December 21), strongly condemned the deadly car ramming incident at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Many expressed their condolences to the people of Germany as they mourn the tragic attack.

Global leaders on Saturday (December 21), strongly condemned the deadly car ramming incident at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Many expressed their condolences to the people of Germany as they mourn the tragic attack. "We condemn the horrific and senseless attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Several precious lives have been lost and many have been injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims. Our Mission is in contact with Indians who are injured, as well as their families, and rendering all possible assistance," Indian foreign ministry said in a statement on X. Also read: Saudi Arabia warned Germany about Christmas market attack suspect: Report Outgoing US President Joe Biden also denounced the attack, saying, "The United States extends our deepest condolences to the people of Germany grieving the terrible attack." "No community and no family should have to endure such a despicable and dark event, especially just days before a holiday of joy and peace," he added. “While this situation remains under investigation, make no mistake: the United States will always stand with our allies against violent terror. In the coming days, we will keep all those injured or killed—and their beloved families—close in our hearts,” Biden said. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the deadly attack in Magdeburg as a “terrible, insane act”. "What a terrible act it is to injure and kill so many people there with such brutality. We have now learned that there are over 200 who were injured. Five have died so far, an incredible number, almost 40 are so seriously injured that we have to be very worried about them," he said. Also read: Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown "And that’s why this is a terrible, tragic event.... We all have to show our compassion for the relatives, for the injured, for the city of Magdeburg. And that is why, as chancellor, I want to assure you of the solidarity of the entire country and everyone who bears responsibility in Germany in this matter. This goes deeply to the heart and we will and we must stand together here," Scholz added. "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's condemnation of the run-over incident that occurred in a market in the city of Magdeburg in the Federal Republic of Germany, which resulted in the death and injury of a number of people, expressing its solidarity with the German people and the families of the victims," Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia posted on X. "Deeply shocked by the horror that struck the Magdeburg Christmas market in Germany this evening. My thoughts are with the victims, the injured, and their loved ones and families. France shares the pain of the German people and expresses its full solidarity," French President Emmanuel Macron posted on X. (With inputs from agencies)

World leaders condemn deadly Christmas market attack in Germany; express 'solidarity in grief'

U.S. President Joe Biden signed a bipartisan funding bill into law, preventing a government shutdown. The legislation ensures government operations continue through mid-march, following days of turmoil in Congress.

Joe Biden Signs Funding Bill To Avoid Shutdown

The US Senate has approved a spending bill to prevent a government shutdown, sending it to President Biden for final approval.

US Senate Passes Spending Bill to Avoid Government Shutdown, Sends to Biden

The US Senate has approved a spending bill to prevent a government shutdown, sending it to President Biden for final approval.



Berlin, Germany
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Global leaders on Saturday (December 21), strongly condemned the deadly car ramming incident at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Many expressed their condolences to the people of Germany as they mourn the tragic attack.
"We condemn the horrific and senseless attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Several precious lives have been lost and many have been injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims. Our Mission is in contact with Indians who are injured, as well as their families, and rendering all possible assistance," Indian foreign ministry said in a statement on X.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-warned-germany-about-the-suspect-in-christmas-market-attack-report-785849" target="_blank">Saudi Arabia warned Germany about Christmas market attack suspect: Report</a>
Outgoing US President Joe Biden also denounced the attack, saying, "The United States extends our deepest condolences to the people of Germany grieving the terrible attack."
"No community and no family should have to endure such a despicable and dark event, especially just days before a holiday of joy and peace," he added.
“While this situation remains under investigation, make no mistake: the United States will always stand with our allies against violent terror. In the coming days, we will keep all those injured or killed—and their beloved families—close in our hearts,” Biden said.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the deadly attack in Magdeburg as a “terrible, insane act”. "What a terrible act it is to injure and kill so many people there with such brutality. We have now learned that there are over 200 who were injured. Five have died so far, an incredible number, almost 40 are so seriously injured that we have to be very worried about them," he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-passes-last-minute-bill-to-avert-government-shutdown-biden-set-to-sign-785874" target="_blank">Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown</a>
"And that’s why this is a terrible, tragic event.... We all have to show our compassion for the relatives, for the injured, for the city of Magdeburg. And that is why, as chancellor, I want to assure you of the solidarity of the entire country and everyone who bears responsibility in Germany in this matter. This goes deeply to the heart and we will and we must stand together here," Scholz added.
"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's condemnation of the run-over incident that occurred in a market in the city of Magdeburg in the Federal Republic of Germany, which resulted in the death and injury of a number of people, expressing its solidarity with the German people and the families of the victims," Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia posted on X.
"Deeply shocked by the horror that struck the Magdeburg Christmas market in Germany this evening. My thoughts are with the victims, the injured, and their loved ones and families. France shares the pain of the German people and expresses its full solidarity," French President Emmanuel Macron posted on X.
(With inputs from agencies)

"We condemn the horrific and senseless attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Several precious lives have been lost and many have been injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims. Our Mission is in contact with Indians who are injured, as well as their families, and rendering all possible assistance," Indian foreign ministry said in a statement on X.



Berlin, Germany Global leaders on Saturday (December 21), strongly condemned the deadly car ramming incident at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Many expressed their condolences to the people of Germany as they mourn the tragic attack. "We condemn the horrific and senseless attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Several precious lives have been lost and many have been injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims. Our Mission is in contact with Indians who are injured, as well as their families, and rendering all possible assistance," Indian foreign ministry said in a statement on X. Also read: Saudi Arabia warned Germany about Christmas market attack suspect: Report Outgoing US President Joe Biden also denounced the attack, saying, "The United States extends our deepest condolences to the people of Germany grieving the terrible attack." "No community and no family should have to endure such a despicable and dark event, especially just days before a holiday of joy and peace," he added. “While this situation remains under investigation, make no mistake: the United States will always stand with our allies against violent terror. In the coming days, we will keep all those injured or killed—and their beloved families—close in our hearts,” Biden said. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the deadly attack in Magdeburg as a “terrible, insane act”. "What a terrible act it is to injure and kill so many people there with such brutality. We have now learned that there are over 200 who were injured. Five have died so far, an incredible number, almost 40 are so seriously injured that we have to be very worried about them," he said. Also read: Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown "And that’s why this is a terrible, tragic event.... We all have to show our compassion for the relatives, for the injured, for the city of Magdeburg. And that is why, as chancellor, I want to assure you of the solidarity of the entire country and everyone who bears responsibility in Germany in this matter. This goes deeply to the heart and we will and we must stand together here," Scholz added. "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's condemnation of the run-over incident that occurred in a market in the city of Magdeburg in the Federal Republic of Germany, which resulted in the death and injury of a number of people, expressing its solidarity with the German people and the families of the victims," Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia posted on X. "Deeply shocked by the horror that struck the Magdeburg Christmas market in Germany this evening. My thoughts are with the victims, the injured, and their loved ones and families. France shares the pain of the German people and expresses its full solidarity," French President Emmanuel Macron posted on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Washington, United States
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US President Joe Biden on Saturday (December 21), signed into law the bill passed by Congress to fund the government through mid-March, the White House said, averting a government shutdown.
Without the bill’s passage, federal funding would have expired at midnight on Friday. Ahead of the vote, the White House Office of Management and Budget had told government agencies to prepare for a potential shutdown.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-stopgap-funding-bill-minus-trumps-debt-ceiling-president-elect-says-let-shutdown-begin-now-785691" target="_blank">US Congress passes stopgap bill minus Trump's debt ceiling; President-elect says let shutdown 'begin now'</a>
The Senate passed the bill with a significant majority of 85-11, shortly after the midnight deadline, at 00:30. Both Democrats and Republicans largely supported the bill, marking the final vote of the 118th US Congress.
Earlier this week, lawmakers had reached an agreement on a budget plan, but it collapsed after former President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk urged Republicans to oppose it.
The 118-page legislation passed by the Senate, titled the "American Relief Act, 2025," excludes a debt-limit provision previously demanded by Trump, which had faced resistance from Democrats and some Republicans as well.
The final version also removes other measures proposed by Democrats, including the first pay raise for lawmakers since 2009, funds to rebuild a collapsed bridge in Baltimore, healthcare reforms, and provisions addressing misleading advertising by hotels and live event venues.
However, the bill allocates $100 billion (£78 billion) for disaster relief to support recovery from hurricanes and other natural disasters, as well as $10 billion in aid for farmers.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amidst-political-chaos-in-canada-feisty-trudeau-perseveres-but-for-how-long-785860" target="_blank">Amidst political chaos in Canada, feisty Trudeau perseveres, but for how long?</a>
Had the shutdown happened, it would have significantly disrupted public services, including national parks, food assistance programmes, and federally funded preschools. It would also have limited support to farmers and individuals recovering from natural disasters.
The US last experienced a government shutdown in 2019 during Trump’s presidency. It lasted 35 days, making it the longest in the nation’s history.
(With inputs from agencies)

Without the bill’s passage, federal funding would have expired at midnight on Friday. Ahead of the vote, the White House Office of Management and Budget had told government agencies to prepare for a potential shutdown.



Washington, United States US President Joe Biden on Saturday (December 21), signed into law the bill passed by Congress to fund the government through mid-March, the White House said, averting a government shutdown. Without the bill’s passage, federal funding would have expired at midnight on Friday. Ahead of the vote, the White House Office of Management and Budget had told government agencies to prepare for a potential shutdown. Also read: US Congress passes stopgap bill minus Trump's debt ceiling; President-elect says let shutdown 'begin now' The Senate passed the bill with a significant majority of 85-11, shortly after the midnight deadline, at 00:30. Both Democrats and Republicans largely supported the bill, marking the final vote of the 118th US Congress. Earlier this week, lawmakers had reached an agreement on a budget plan, but it collapsed after former President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk urged Republicans to oppose it. The 118-page legislation passed by the Senate, titled the "American Relief Act, 2025," excludes a debt-limit provision previously demanded by Trump, which had faced resistance from Democrats and some Republicans as well. The final version also removes other measures proposed by Democrats, including the first pay raise for lawmakers since 2009, funds to rebuild a collapsed bridge in Baltimore, healthcare reforms, and provisions addressing misleading advertising by hotels and live event venues. However, the bill allocates $100 billion (£78 billion) for disaster relief to support recovery from hurricanes and other natural disasters, as well as $10 billion in aid for farmers. Also read: Amidst political chaos in Canada, feisty Trudeau perseveres, but for how long? Had the shutdown happened, it would have significantly disrupted public services, including national parks, food assistance programmes, and federally funded preschools. It would also have limited support to farmers and individuals recovering from natural disasters. The US last experienced a government shutdown in 2019 during Trump’s presidency. It lasted 35 days, making it the longest in the nation’s history. (With inputs from agencies)

Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown

US President Joe Biden on Saturday (December 21), signed into law the bill passed by Congress to fund the government through mid-March, the White House said, averting a government shutdown.

US President Joe Biden on Saturday (December 21), signed into law the bill passed by Congress to fund the government through mid-March, the White House said, averting a government shutdown. Without the bill’s passage, federal funding would have expired at midnight on Friday. Ahead of the vote, the White House Office of Management and Budget had told government agencies to prepare for a potential shutdown. Also read: US Congress passes stopgap bill minus Trump's debt ceiling; President-elect says let shutdown 'begin now' The Senate passed the bill with a significant majority of 85-11, shortly after the midnight deadline, at 00:30. Both Democrats and Republicans largely supported the bill, marking the final vote of the 118th US Congress. Earlier this week, lawmakers had reached an agreement on a budget plan, but it collapsed after former President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk urged Republicans to oppose it. The 118-page legislation passed by the Senate, titled the "American Relief Act, 2025," excludes a debt-limit provision previously demanded by Trump, which had faced resistance from Democrats and some Republicans as well. The final version also removes other measures proposed by Democrats, including the first pay raise for lawmakers since 2009, funds to rebuild a collapsed bridge in Baltimore, healthcare reforms, and provisions addressing misleading advertising by hotels and live event venues. However, the bill allocates $100 billion (£78 billion) for disaster relief to support recovery from hurricanes and other natural disasters, as well as $10 billion in aid for farmers. Also read: Amidst political chaos in Canada, feisty Trudeau perseveres, but for how long? Had the shutdown happened, it would have significantly disrupted public services, including national parks, food assistance programmes, and federally funded preschools. It would also have limited support to farmers and individuals recovering from natural disasters. The US last experienced a government shutdown in 2019 during Trump’s presidency. It lasted 35 days, making it the longest in the nation’s history. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia has unleashed a retaliatory strike on Ukraine's capital Kyiv. The attack was carried out in the early hours of Friday causing devastation in various parts of Ukraine’s capital.  

Russia Bombards Kyiv With Eight Ballistic Missiles | WION Pulse | World News

Washington, United States
<meta content="uuidK8U0axt3m8n9" name="uuid"/>
Donald Trump has made his intentions clear regarding a possible government shutdown, saying that he wants it to happen under President Joe Biden’s administration.
“If there is going to be a shutdown of government, let it begin now, under the Biden Administration, not after January 20th, under ‘TRUMP.’ This is a Biden problem to solve, but if Republicans can help solve it, they will!” Trump wrote on Truth Social on Friday (December 20).
<h2>House Republicans to make another attempt to pass bill to prevent government shutdown</h2>
Meanwhile, House Republicans are preparing to make another attempt to pass a bill to prevent a government shutdown past midnight, according to Politico. Republican congressman Ralph Norman, a member of the right-wing House Freedom Caucus, told the publication that the party plans to push the bill through the rules committee, which would require only a simple majority in the House for approval.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-us-lawmakers-scramble-to-avert-govt-shutdown-heres-whats-at-stake-785644" target="_blank">US lawmakers scramble to avert govt shutdown. Here's what's at stake</a>
<h2>Elon Musk’s influence within the Republican Party targeted by Democrats</h2>
At the same time, questions are being raised about Elon Musk’s influence within the Republican Party. Musk’s criticism of a bipartisan spending bill led by House Speaker Mike Johnson appears to have had severe repercussions.
On Wednesday, Musk criticised the proposal calling it “the steal of your tax dollars.” Shortly after, Trump and Senator JD Vance echoed Musk’s criticisms, urging Republicans to reject the bill. They argued that the national debt is unsustainable and accused the proposal of being a concession to Democrats.
Watch | USA News: House Rejects Trump-backed Plan On U.S. Government Shutdown
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/20/2012_TRUMP_FULL_8PM_wion-1734711614-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2012_TRUMP_FULL_8PM_wion_.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=554&tags=trump,Harris,US election,joe biden,WION" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
The Trump-backed "streamlined" spending plan, introduced as an alternative, was rejected by the House on Thursday evening.
Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s incoming White House press secretary, addressed these claims, telling Business Insider, “As soon as President Trump released his official stance on the CR (continuing resolution), Republicans on Capitol Hill echoed his point of view. President Trump is the leader of the Republican Party. Full stop.”
Senator Bernie Sanders wrote on X, “Democrats and Republicans spent months negotiating a bipartisan agreement to fund our government. The richest man on Earth, President Elon Musk, doesn’t like it.”
Former Obama adviser David Axelrod added, “So will President-elect Musk join the budget negotiations now?”
(With inputs from agencies)

“If there is going to be a shutdown of government, let it begin now, under the Biden Administration, not after January 20th, under ‘TRUMP.’ This is a Biden problem to solve, but if Republicans can help solve it, they will!” Trump wrote on Truth Social on Friday (December 20).



Washington, United States Donald Trump has made his intentions clear regarding a possible government shutdown, saying that he wants it to happen under President Joe Biden’s administration. “If there is going to be a shutdown of government, let it begin now, under the Biden Administration, not after January 20th, under ‘TRUMP.’ This is a Biden problem to solve, but if Republicans can help solve it, they will!” Trump wrote on Truth Social on Friday (December 20). House Republicans to make another attempt to pass bill to prevent government shutdown Meanwhile, House Republicans are preparing to make another attempt to pass a bill to prevent a government shutdown past midnight, according to Politico. Republican congressman Ralph Norman, a member of the right-wing House Freedom Caucus, told the publication that the party plans to push the bill through the rules committee, which would require only a simple majority in the House for approval. Also read: US lawmakers scramble to avert govt shutdown. Here's what's at stake Elon Musk’s influence within the Republican Party targeted by Democrats At the same time, questions are being raised about Elon Musk’s influence within the Republican Party. Musk’s criticism of a bipartisan spending bill led by House Speaker Mike Johnson appears to have had severe repercussions. On Wednesday, Musk criticised the proposal calling it “the steal of your tax dollars.” Shortly after, Trump and Senator JD Vance echoed Musk’s criticisms, urging Republicans to reject the bill. They argued that the national debt is unsustainable and accused the proposal of being a concession to Democrats. Watch | USA News: House Rejects Trump-backed Plan On U.S. Government Shutdown The Trump-backed "streamlined" spending plan, introduced as an alternative, was rejected by the House on Thursday evening. Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s incoming White House press secretary, addressed these claims, telling Business Insider, “As soon as President Trump released his official stance on the CR (continuing resolution), Republicans on Capitol Hill echoed his point of view. President Trump is the leader of the Republican Party. Full stop.” Senator Bernie Sanders wrote on X, “Democrats and Republicans spent months negotiating a bipartisan agreement to fund our government. The richest man on Earth, President Elon Musk, doesn’t like it.” Former Obama adviser David Axelrod added, “So will President-elect Musk join the budget negotiations now?” (With inputs from agencies)

'This is his problem,' Trump says let the US govt shutdown happen under Biden admin

As the future of warfare increasingly revolves around artificial intelligence, Ukraine holds a significant advantage with its extensive collection of drone footage—spanning millions of hours—that can be utilized to train AI models for battlefield decision-making. During Russia's invasion of Ukraine, both sides have employed AI to enhance combat strategies, including identifying targets and analyzing images at speeds far exceeding human capability. This technological edge showcases the growing role of AI in modern conflicts. Watch to know more.



Ukraine Collects 2 Million Hours Of Drone Footage To Train AI | GRAVITAS | World News

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