January wasn't expected to break global temperature records. But it did.

Democracy Forward Sues for Epstein Investigation RecordsAn advocacy group, Democracy Forward, has filed a lawsuit against the Justice Department and FBI for records related to their handling of the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking investigation, including communications involving Donald Trump. This lawsuit follows a lack of response to Freedom of Information Act requests and comes amid heightened scrutiny and frustration over the government's withholding of documents since Epstein's 2019 death. Want More Context? 🔎

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman revealed that the polite use of phrases like "please" and "thank you" in interactions with ChatGPT costs the company tens of millions in electricity due to the high energy demands of AI systems, which consume 40 million kilowatt-hours daily and 39.16 million gallons of water. While being polite may feel natural, studies suggest it adds unnecessary complexity to AI prompts, increasing operational costs without enhancing performance. Want More Context? 🔎

Republican members of the U.S. House ways and means committee are urging Trump administration officials to pressure Canada to abandon its Online Streaming Act, citing it as a significant threat to U.S.-Canada trade relations. The Act, implemented in 2023, mandates streaming services to contribute financially to Canadian content, which U.S. lawmakers argue discriminates against American companies and harms cross-border digital trade. Want More Context? 🔎

President Trump has instructed the Commerce Department to prepare a census that excludes undocumented immigrants, potentially erasing around 11 million from the official count and affecting congressional representation. This move, which aligns with Republican efforts to marginalize undocumented individuals, raises legal and historical questions about the inclusion of non-citizens in population counts. Want More Context? 🔎

The brother of Israeli hostage Evyatar David, recently shown in a distressing video by Hamas, described it as a "new form of cruelty," highlighting his brother's severe malnourishment and suffering. As families of hostages urge Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to prioritize their release amidst ongoing military actions in Gaza, concerns about humanitarian conditions continue to rise, with reports of significant casualties and deprivation in the region. Want More Context? 🔎

Deaths from the "flesh-eating" bacteria Vibrio vulnificus are increasing along the southeastern U.S. coasts, with at least ten fatalities reported this year, primarily in Florida and Louisiana. Experts note the rise in infections correlates with warmer water temperatures and may be influenced by environmental factors, including hurricane activity, highlighting the need for preventive measures and immediate medical attention for potential infections. Want More Context? 🔎