I'm from Appalachia and my Christmas visit after Hurricane Helene revealed what DC really thinks of us

A weeklong walkout by Texas House Democrats is obstructing redrawn congressional maps sought by Trump, leading to a broader nationwide redistricting fight. As Texas Republicans escalate pressure with civil arrest warrants and fines, Democrats remain in blue states, asserting that the mid-cycle redistricting is a partisan power grab aimed at securing additional GOP seats for the 2026 elections. Want More Context? 🔎

A gunman opened fire in Atlanta near the CDC and Emory University, killing a responding police officer and injuring no civilians, while the suspect was found dead from gunshot wounds in a CVS. The investigation is ongoing, with officials examining whether the attack was targeted at the CDC, amid increasing concerns over gun violence in the state following a recent shooting at Fort Stewart. Want More Context? 🔎

US brokers peace agreement between Armenia and AzerbaijanLeaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan signed a historic peace agreement at a White House summit, facilitated by President Trump, aimed at resolving decades of conflict and reopening key transportation routes, including a new corridor named the Trump Route. The deal signifies a strategic shift in the region, diminishing Russia's influence while enhancing U.S. engagement in the South Caucasus. Want More Context? 🔎

William Webster Press ConferenceOn October 25, 2002, William Webster, former director of the FBI and CIA, addressed the media after being appointed chairman of the new Public Company Accounting Oversight Board by the SEC in Washington, D.C. This decision, made through a divided vote, marked a significant step in overseeing public company accounting practices. Want More Context? 🔎

A Texas district judge temporarily barred Beto O'Rourke and his political group from funding Democratic legislators who left the state to obstruct a Republican redistricting plan, a ruling celebrated by Attorney General Ken Paxton, who accused O'Rourke of a bribery scheme. O'Rourke, vowing to fight back, claimed Paxton aims to silence efforts for voting rights as Democrats face legal and financial challenges for their quorum break. Want More Context? 🔎

In Pasadena, California, librarian Sharon Nicholls and her neighbors are participating in the "Adopt a Corner" campaign to support day laborers and protect them from immigration raids at local Home Depot stores, amid rising community activism against the Trump administration's deportation policies. With management's support, they aim to document and stand against the vulnerability of immigrants, as public disapproval of deportations grows. Want More Context? 🔎