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50jili site Lokesh helps troubled woman return to Nellore from Kuwait“Educated women raise educated families.” In Pakistan, the pervasive nature of such regressive beliefs reduces girls’ education to an optional inconvenience borne by their parents until they possess the bare minimum academic skills necessary to qualify for marriage and help their own children with their homework. Under this absurd logic, educating a daughter is only valued as long as she has marriage and motherhood on the cards in the near future. Therefore, when societal stigmas and reproductive myths surrounding disability diminish the marriage prospects for girls with special mobility needs, many young women on wheelchairs are doomed to spend the rest of their lives in illiteracy. Where female literacy in the country remains low regardless of ability, data obtained from the report titled “The Missing Third of Pakistan” published by the Pak Alliance for Maths and Science (PAMS) indicates that nearly 83 per cent of female children with disability are out of school. Conversely, only 17 per cent of girls with disabilities are in school, which is roughly three quarters of the national literacy rate among girls above the age of 15. Where stereotypes surrounding both girls’ education and disability can partly explain the abysmal trend, the failure of the government to cater to the special infrastructural, mobility, transport, hygiene and safety needs of female children with physical disabilities has only heightened their academic exclusion, relegating them to a life of socio-economic deprivation and isolation. “Although some efforts have been made by the state, such as the opening of special education schools at the district level, they are more or less insufficient. The teachers lack training in special education while the schools are generally inaccessible, especially when it comes to toilets. Either there are no policies ensuring education to differently-abled girls, or the existing ones are not being implemented,” opined Anbreen Ajaib, an Islamabad-based women’s rights activist. Inadequate data, facilities and infrastructure The first step towards improving literacy among differently-abled female children would involve identifying the exact number of girls with disabilities that are out school, which unfortunately, no state organization across the country has been able to gather till date. “UN statistics show that approximately 15 per cent of Pakistan's population consists of individuals with disabilities. However, we have no accurate data on the number of out-of-school children with disabilities,’ confessed Farman Ali, Deputy Director of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Karachi region. Going by the estimates obtained by the Dawah Academy for Special Children, almost 90 per cent of children with physical disabilities are out of school, primarily due to the scarcity of special education schools in Sindh, which are catering to only 4,500 differently-abled students. Sources claim that out of 66 educational institutions established in Sindh by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, most do not offer education beyond matriculation. According to data, only eight educational institutions are registered for students with disabilities in Karachi, where just 40 female students appeared for the matriculation exams in 2023 followed by 64 in 2024. The ratio of female students dropped further for the intermediate level, where from across six registered colleges, only 27 girls took the exam in 2023 while 33 appeared for the exam in 2024. In Punjab, date obtained from the Department of Special Education, revealed that out of a total of 3000 differently-abled children studying at special schools, only 839 were girls. Unsurprisingly, the department too had no data on the number of out of school girls with disabilities. According to the spokesperson, currently 303 institutions have been established by the Special Education Institute. At present, the on-ground reality is that there are only three functional institutions for disabled children at the middle level with two at the high school level. Apart from these, there are no public institutions to provide basic education to differently-abled children. Miles up north in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and its merged areas, data from the Social Welfare Department K-P revealed that only 364 girls with physical disabilities were enrolled across schools in the province. Imran Takkar, a children’s rights activist from Peshawar, confirmed that the scarcity of trained teachers, accessible learning materials, and basic facilities had complicated education for girls living with disabilities. “Those in the rural and remote areas are particularly disadvantaged since travelling to far-off specialized institutions can be both financially and physically challenging for families,” said Takkar. Concurring with Takkar, Farida Shaheed, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to education, also believed that government schools were not equipped with the teachers and materials necessary for facilitating students with disabilities. “Teachers are not trained on the educational needs of students with disabilities, while educational materials are seldom available in alternative formats, such as Braille, large print, accessible multimedia, Easy Read, plain language, or sign language,” regretted Shaheed. The intersection of gender and ability The concept of intersectionality predicts that the secondary status of a subordinated individual or community is magnified when they happen to be situated at the intersection of two or more marginalized identities. For instance, a differently-abled girl will be dually targeted by both ableism and chauvinism, ending up with a lower societal status and lesser educational opportunities than those afforded to a differently-abled boy or an able-bodied girl. According to Anbreen Ajaib, Executive Director at Bedari, an NGO working on women empowerment, gender stereotypes and societal attitudes significantly contributed to the exclusion of girls with disabilities from education. “Generally, girls are discouraged from pursuing education beyond the primary level, and for those with disabilities, the barriers are even greater. Many families view girls with disabilities as a "curse" or "burden" and see education as irrelevant to their lives, often believing it won’t change their future prospects. This perspective leads to these girls being deprived not only of education but also of social value, with their aspirations and potential ignored,” observed Ajaib. Agreeing with Ajaib, Qari Saad Noor, a disability rights activist from K-P, also felt that societal taboos surrounding disability prevented parents from educating their differently-abled daughters. “While some destitute parents are forced to leave their daughters on the roads to beg, those from well-off households keep them locked up in their homes out of shame,” revealed Noor. Sharing her views on the matter, Shaheed, who is also a feminist human rights activist highlighted the fact that numerous challenges hindered the education of girls with disabilities, starting with the compounding of a general view in our cultural normative framework that girls did not require education. “This belief is intensified when it comes to girls with disabilities since many a times their families are just too ashamed,” claimed Shaheed, who further revealed that during a research she conducted during COVID-19, women living with disabilities underscored the need to educate their own families about their disability. Menstrual hygiene and WASH facilities Given the countless stigmas surrounding menstruation, girls reaching menarche are often rushed through the critical transition into womanhood with minimal guidance and assistance from both mothers and teachers. Yet where able-bodied girls may eventually figure out the peculiarities of placing a sanitary napkin correctly, for those with physical disabilities, avoiding an embarrassing stain at school during that time of the month can become a challenge. According to a report published by the UNICEF, girls with disabilities are often seen as asexual and are rarely given information on their reproductive health and managing their period independently. Furthermore, inaccessible water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities also act as a major barrier hindering girls with disabilities from attending school. “Gender stereotypes label girls with disabilities as asexual, leaving them neglected and excluded from personal and educational growth,” noted Ajaib. Speaking of the specific challenges faced by girl children with disabilities in managing menstrual hygiene at school, Ajaib highlighted the lack of accessible restrooms with WASH facilities. “In Pakistan, girls with disabilities face severe barriers to education, including bullying and stigmatization, which discourages their attendance and hinders their learning. This is aggravated by the fact that menstrual hygiene facilities like toilets are often inaccessible, making it difficult for these girls to manage their hygiene needs with privacy and dignity,” said Ajaib. “Since menstrual management is a taboo subject in Pakistan, schools may also be reluctant or refuse to provide personal assistance with toileting to menstruating girls with disabilities,” added Shaheed, Executive Director at Shirkat Gah, a gender justice organization. Risk of gender-based violence and transportation issues In societies with a high incidence of violence against women (VAW), self-defence programs offer training on a variety of manoeuvres and moves which can help a girl or woman escape a dangerous encounter. However, no punch or kick can come in handy for a victim who is bound to a wheelchair. According to UN Women, women with disabilities face similar forms of gender-based violence to women without disabilities, but at significantly higher rates, more frequently, over a longer period of time and at an increased risk of severe injury. Furthermore, according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) girls and young women with disabilities may face up to 10 times more violence than those without while the European Parliament found that women with disabilities were four times more likely than other women to suffer sexual violence. “Girls with disabilities are vulnerable to harassment however, due to prevailing misconceptions, their reports are often not believed, leaving them unprotected and unsupported. Fearing harassment, families tend to keep these girls overly protected at home, which further isolates them. Ironically, this protection doesn’t shield them from abuse, as some face harassment and violence from untrained caregivers,” highlighted Ajaib. Ajaib believed that instead of fostering empowerment, the prevalent approach towards girls with disabilities tends to rely on sympathy, offering little in terms of meaningful support. “While most districts have a single school dedicated to special education, these are often geared towards boys and are located far from girls' reach. The lack of accessible transportation further limits these girls' ability to attend school, leaving them excluded from the educational opportunities they deserve,” lamented Ajiab. Expanding on Ajaib’s analysis, Shaheed, also felt that access to safe transport was a major obstacle facing all girl students especially those with disabilities who may need escorts or helpers to accompany them. Prioritizing education for girls with disabilities The law of diminishing marginal utility governs that the value of a thousand-rupee bill depends on the socioeconomic status of the person receiving it. While an employee with a six-figure salary might barely notice the amount credited to their account, for a beggar on the road chasing odd coins throughout the day, a benefactor offering the same amount would signal a day of celebration. Thereby, investing in the education of girls with disabilities as a priority will yield much higher returns to schooling than those expected from the education of girl’s without disabilities, uplifting the dually marginalized group both socially and economically in the coming future. Ajaib believed that denying education to girls with disabilities was a violation of their fundamental rights and signaled a failure of the state to uphold its international commitments to inclusive education. “Education is essential for girls with disabilities to unlock their potential and our experience has shown that when given proper opportunities, girls with disabilities can achieve remarkable outcomes. Educating them enables self-sufficiency, helping them become independent, skilled contributors to their families and communities rather than a perceived "burden." Furthermore, as they gain skills and enter the workforce, they strengthen the country's economy and set examples that challenge stereotypes. Failing to educate them, however, perpetuates a cycle of dependence, marginalization, and missed opportunities for societal growth and economic development,” urged Ajaib. Expanding on the pitfalls of denying education to girls with disabilities, Professor Raheel Karim, former Head of the King Edward Medical College, revealed that neglecting the educational needs of children with disabilities can often lead to the development of mental health issues. “Despite possessing the same potential as other children, children with disabilities are discriminated against by parents and society, discouraging their personal growth and preventing them from becoming productive citizens,” noted Karim, currently serving as a psychiatric consultant in the United Kingdom. In light of the overall stigma associated with children with disabilities, Ajaib was of the opinion that in order to promote education, teachers required targeted training, not only in teaching methods for students with disabilities but also in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. “This includes breaking down stigmas and ensuring all students understand and respect disability as part of human diversity. Furthermore, providing scholarships to girls with disabilities is essential to help them cover transportation costs, making regular attendance more feasible for families who might otherwise keep them at home,” she added. Ajaib went on to highlight that addressing the intersection of gender and ability in the country’s education system required a commitment to making all schools inclusive and accessible, a process, which in her opinion could start by adapting school infrastructures to support physical disabilities. “Once schools are physically accessible, they should be progressively equipped to support other disabilities, including visual and hearing impairments, with specialized resources and assistive technologies,” implored Ajaib who also believed that with education, girls with disabilities could better manage personal hygiene and protect themselves against harassment, reducing their vulnerability. Role of parents, teachers, media, and the state Battling illiteracy among girls with disabilities is impossible without the combined efforts of parents, teachers, the media, and the government, who all have an essential role in supporting the education of differently-abled girls, by creating and promoting a more inclusive environment. Ajaib expressed her view that parents of differently-abled girls can play a pivotal role by actively advocating for their daughters’ rights to education and pushing against societal stigmas that discourage them from attending school. By providing emotional support, encouraging independence, and seeking educational opportunities, parents can empower their daughters and instill confidence in their abilities. “Secondly, teachers are crucial in creating an enabling environment within schools. With proper training in special education and inclusive teaching practices, teachers can provide tailored support to differently-abled girls, ensure their participation, and foster a positive classroom culture. Teachers can also raise awareness among other students, promoting empathy and understanding,” she claimed. “Furthermore, the government has the responsibility to make inclusive education a priority. This includes implementing policies that make all schools accessible, providing specialized resources, and training teachers to meet diverse needs. The government should also monitor policy implementation to ensure accessibility standards are met across schools,” suggested Ajaib. Ajaib went on to highlight the media’s ability to shift societal attitudes by raising awareness about the potential of differently-abled girls and the importance of their education. In her opinion, media campaigns can highlight success stories, break down misconceptions, and encourage families and communities to support these girls while simultaneously holding institutions accountable for providing inclusive education, sparking broader societal support for this cause. “Another important stakeholder is civil society organizations. These organizations can play an effective role by acting as watchdogs, providing technical assistance to the government in developing and implementing policies, and raising awareness through community outreach programs. By introducing public-private partnerships, the government and civil society organizations can share resources and bridge gaps to ensure inclusive education for all,” noted Ajaib. On a similar note, Farida Shaheed, who is also a sociologist proposed a comprehensive approach to tackling the discrimination facing girls with disabilities and promoting their education. “Orientation sessions must be organized for parents, siblings and other household members of girls with disabilities. Similarly, mass public awareness campaigns must be initiated through social media to promote acceptance of girls with disabilities. Furthermore, the government must support schemes for girls with disabilities so that families consider them as an asset and not a burden,” claimed Shaheed. “By combining these efforts, Pakistan can ensure that differently-abled female children have the chance to thrive in school and to fulfill their potential in society,” concluded Ajaib, who is also an expert on social justice and human rights.Milan's Via MonteNapoleone usurps New York's Fifth Avenue as world's most upscale shopping street

NEW YORK (AP) — Remember what you searched for in 2024? Google does. Google released its annual “Year in Search” on Tuesday, rounding up the top trending queries entered into its namesake search engine in 2024. The results show terms that saw the highest spike in traffic compared to last year — ranging from key news events, notably global elections , to the most popular songs, athletes and unforgettable pop-culture moments that people looked up worldwide. Sports — particularly soccer and cricket — dominated Google's overall trending searches in 2024. Copa América topped those search trends globally, followed by the UEFA European Championship and ICC Men's T20 World Cup . Meanwhile, the U.S. election led news-specific searches worldwide. Queries about excessive heat and this year's Olympic Games followed. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump topped searches in Google's people category this year — followed by Catherine, Princess of Wales , U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Algerian boxer Imane Khelif , who also led athlete-specific searches. Meanwhile, the late Liam Payne , Toby Keith and O.J. Simpson led search trends among notable individuals who died in 2024. In the world of entertainment, Disney and Pixar's “Inside Out 2” was the top trending movie of the year, while Netflix's “Baby Reindeer” led TV show trends. And Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” dominated song trends. That's just the tip of the iceberg. Queries for the Olympic village's chocolate muffin , made famous by Norwegian swimmer Henrik Christiansen over the summer games, led Google's global recipe trends this year. The New York Times' “Connections” puzzle topped game searches. And in the U.S., country-specific data shows, many people asked Google about online trends like the word “demure” and “ mob wife aesthetic .” You can find more country-specific lists, and trends from years past , through Google’s “Year in Search” data published online . The California company said it collected 2024 search results from Jan. 1 through Nov. 23 of this year. Google isn't the only one to publish an annual recap or top trends as 2024 draws to a close. Spotify Wrapped , for example, as well as Collins Dictionary and Merriam-Webster’s words of the year, have offered additional reflections for 2024.

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House rejects Democratic efforts to force release of Matt Gaetz ethics reportNoneLuigi Nicholas Mangione, the suspect in the fatal shooting of a healthcare executive in New York City, apparently was living a charmed life: the grandson of a wealthy real estate developer, valedictorian of his elite Baltimore prep school and with degrees from one of the nation's top private universities. Friends at an exclusive co-living space at the edge of touristy Waikiki in Hawaii where the 26-year-old Mangione once lived widely considered him a “great guy,” and pictures on his social media accounts show a fit, smiling, handsome young man on beaches and at parties. Now, investigators in New York and Pennsylvania are working to piece together why Mangione may have diverged from this path to make the violent and radical decision to gun down UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in a brazen attack on a Manhattan street. The killing sparked widespread discussions about corporate greed, unfairness in the medical insurance industry and even inspired folk-hero sentiment toward his killer. But Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro sharply refuted that perception after Mangione's arrest on Monday when a customer at a McDonald's restaurant in Pennsylvania spotted Mangione eating and noticed he resembled the shooting suspect in security-camera photos released by New York police. “In some dark corners, this killer is being hailed as a hero. Hear me on this, he is no hero,” Shapiro said. “The real hero in this story is the person who called 911 at McDonald’s this morning.” Mangione comes from a prominent Maryland family. His grandfather, Nick Mangione, who died in 2008, was a successful real estate developer. One of his best-known projects was Turf Valley Resort, a sprawling luxury retreat and conference center outside Baltimore that he purchased in 1978. The Mangione family also purchased Hayfields Country Club north of Baltimore in 1986. On Monday, Baltimore County police officers blocked off an entrance to the property, which public records link to Luigi Mangione’s parents. Reporters and photographers gathered outside the entrance. The father of 10 children, Nick Mangione prepared his five sons — including Luigi Mangione’s father, Louis Mangione — to help manage the family business, according to a 2003 Washington Post report. Nick Mangione had 37 grandchildren, including Luigi, according to the grandfather's obituary. Luigi Mangione’s grandparents donated to charities through the Mangione Family Foundation, according to a statement from Loyola University commemorating Nick Mangione’s wife’s death in 2023. They donated to various causes, including Catholic organizations, colleges and the arts. One of Luigi Mangione’s cousins is Republican Maryland state legislator Nino Mangione, a spokesman for the lawmaker’s office confirmed. “Our family is shocked and devastated by Luigi’s arrest,” Mangione’s family said in a statement posted on social media by Nino Mangione. “We offer our prayers to the family of Brian Thompson and we ask people to pray for all involved.” Mangione, who was valedictorian of his elite Maryland prep school, earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in computer science in 2020 from the University of Pennsylvania, a university spokesman told The Associated Press. He learned to code in high school and helped start a club at Penn for people interested in gaming and game design, according to a 2018 story in Penn Today, a campus publication. His social media posts suggest he belonged to the fraternity Phi Kappa Psi. They also show him taking part in a 2019 program at Stanford University, and in photos with family and friends at the Jersey Shore and in Hawaii, San Diego, Puerto Rico, and other destinations. The Gilman School, from which Mangione graduated in 2016, is one of Baltimore’s elite prep schools. The children of some of the city’s wealthiest and most prominent residents, including Orioles legend Cal Ripken Jr., have attended the school. Its alumni include sportswriter Frank Deford and former Arizona Gov. Fife Symington. In his valedictory speech, Luigi Mangione described his classmates’ “incredible courage to explore the unknown and try new things.” Mangione took a software programming internship after high school at Maryland-based video game studio Firaxis, where he fixed bugs on the hit strategy game Civilization 6, according to a LinkedIn profile. Firaxis' parent company, Take-Two Interactive, said it would not comment on former employees. He more recently worked at the car-buying website TrueCar, but has not worked there since 2023, the head of the Santa Monica, California-based company confirmed to the AP. From January to June 2022, Mangione lived at Surfbreak, a “co-living” space at the edge of touristy Waikiki in Honolulu. Like other residents of the shared penthouse catering to remote workers, Mangione underwent a background check, said Josiah Ryan, a spokesperson for owner and founder R.J. Martin. “Luigi was just widely considered to be a great guy. There were no complaints,” Ryan said. “There was no sign that might point to these alleged crimes they’re saying he committed.” At Surfbreak, Martin learned Mangione had severe back pain from childhood that interfered with many aspects of his life, including surfing, Ryan said. “He went surfing with R.J. once but it didn’t work out because of his back,” Ryan said, but noted that Mangione and Martin often went together to a rock-climbing gym. Mangione left Surfbreak to get surgery on the mainland, Ryan said, then later returned to Honolulu and rented an apartment. An image posted to a social media account linked to Mangione showed what appeared to be an X-ray of a metal rod and multiple screws inserted into someone's lower spine. Martin stopped hearing from Mangione six months to a year ago. An X account linked to Mangione includes recent posts about the negative impact of smartphones on children; healthy eating and exercise habits; psychological theories; and a quote from Indian philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti about the dangers of becoming “well-adjusted to a profoundly sick society.” Mangione likely was motivated by his anger at what he called “parasitic” health insurance companies and a disdain for corporate greed, according to a law enforcement bulletin obtained by AP. He wrote that the U.S. has the most expensive healthcare system in the world and that the profits of major corporations continue to rise while “our life expectancy” does not, according to the bulletin, based on a review of the suspect’s handwritten notes and social media posts. He appeared to view the targeted killing of the UnitedHealthcare CEO as a symbolic takedown, asserting in his note that he is the “first to face it with such brutal honesty,” the bulletin said. Mangione called “Unabomber” Ted Kaczynski a “political revolutionary” and may have found inspiration from the man who carried out a series of bombings while railing against modern society and technology, the document said. Associated Press reporters Lea Skene in Baltimore; Jennifer Sinco Kelleher in Honolulu; Maryclaire Dale in Philadelphia; John Seewer in Toledo, Ohio; and Michael Kunzelman in Washington, D.C., contributed to this report.

Mexico Programmatic Ad Seller Quality Rankings Q3 2024: Sharethrough Tops Pixalate’s Web Seller Trust Index; Verve No. 1 on Mobile; Xandr Monetize Leads on Samsung Smart TV for CTVNew Delhi: India slammed developed countries for causing the climate crisis during a landmark hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Thursday, saying they exploited the global carbon budget, failed to honour climate-finance promises and are now demanding that developing countries restrict their resource use. The court is examining what legal obligations countries have to address climate change and the consequences if they fail. India also urged the ICJ to avoid creating new obligations that go beyond the existing climate-change framework. “The court may exercise due caution to avoid devising new or additional obligations beyond what is already agreed under the existing climate-change regime, which take into consideration historic emissions, climate justice and the principal principle of equity and CBDR-RC, as well as the equitable access to the global carbon budget,” the country said. China and the United States have also told the court that the existing UN framework is sufficient to determine States’ legal obligations to fight climate change. Making submissions on behalf of India, Luther M Rangreji, joint secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), said, “If contribution to degradation is unequal, responsibility must also be unequal.” He said climate change is a global problem that requires a global solution, but the solutions must respect the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities (CBDR-RC), which is at the heart of the climate-change regime. “It is inequitable and unjust to expect countries with negligible historical emissions to bear an equal burden in mitigating climate change.... Developed nations must lead by example by achieving net zero well before 2050 and providing the means of implementation to developing nations,” India said. Rangreji said developing nations are the hardest hit by climate change, despite contributing the least to it. “The developed world, which historically contributed the most, is ironically the best equipped with the technological and economic means to address this challenge,” the official said. He criticised rich countries for enjoying the benefits of fossil fuels while discouraging developing nations from using their own energy resources. “Countries which have reaped development benefits from exploiting fossil fuels demand developing countries to not utilise the energy resources available to them,” India argued. It said the obligations of developing countries under the Paris Agreement are dependent on the fulfilment of two important factors — one, aspects of climate finance and two, climate justice. India also slammed the lack of action on climate-finance commitments. “The USD 100 billion pledged at the Copenhagen COP in 2009 by developed country parties and the doubling of the contribution to the Adaptation Fund have not yet been translated into any concrete actions,” it noted. India called the new climate-finance package for the Global South agreed at COP29 in Azerbaijan’s Baku “too little, too distant” to meet the urgent needs of developing countries. “Climate finance is a critical enabler for planning and implementing ambitious climate actions and an essential element for building trust in climate multilateralism. Any fair or meaningful assessment of obligations of States cannot be conducted without simultaneously assessing the climate-finance support provided,” the country said. India stressed the principle of fairness and equity, saying, “If contribution to global environmental degradation is unequal, the responsibility should also be unequal.” The fast-developing South Asian nation also reaffirmed its commitment to its climate targets under the Paris Agreement but warned against overburdening its citizens. “There is a limit on how much we burden our citizens, even when India is pursuing Sustainable Development Goals for one-sixth of humanity,” it said. India is home to about 17.8 per cent of the current global population. However, its contribution to climate change is less than 4 per cent historically. “Our per capita greenhouse gas emissions are less than half of the global average. Nevertheless, India has been undertaking ambitious national climate actions in good faith as a solutions provider. “Despite having overriding priorities for poverty eradication and achieving Sustainable Development Goals, India has contributed more than its fair share in the global climate actions,” Rangreji stressed. The country also said the science behind climate change is evolving and it may carry biases based on the choices made in interpreting evidence. Therefore, it said, decisions on who should do what cannot be guided by science alone. The hearing is the result of years of campaigning by Pacific island nations and Vanuatu, which led to a UN resolution asking the ICJ for an advisory opinion. Over the next two weeks, 98 countries, including small island nations and large emitters, will present their views. Though non-binding, the ICJ’s opinion could set a moral and legal benchmark in the global fight against climate change.

I’ve seen Amazon’s drone delivery future. The public may hate itAston Villa march on in Champions League after beating RB LeipzigTLSI stock touches 52-week low at $3.5 amid market challenges

(Bloomberg) — The founder of the troubled device rental startup Grover who was forced out of the company a year ago is trying to stage a comeback by fighting a restructuring effort that may wipe out the value of investors’ equity. Michael Cassau, who created Grover in 2015 and left his post as chief executive officer last year after investors lost confidence in his leadership, is asking shareholders to now hand him their stakes in the German company so he can build a majority position, according to a presentation reviewed by Bloomberg. In exchange, he’s promising to issue them a deferred payment that values the startup at as much as €900 million ($945 million) if he can turn it around and achieve certain growth targets, the documents show. Cassau is looking to head off a plan by the startup’s current management team to restructure Grover’s debt in a way that he says would wipe out the value that existing equity holders have in the company, according to the presentation and people familiar with the situation, who asked not to be identified because the information is not public. Grover has used up half of its share capital, the money a company raises by issuing stock in its business, and plans to give investors an update on the state of restructuring efforts at a Dec. 17 meeting, a company notice reviewed by Bloomberg shows. Helge Reich, an attorney representing Grover, didn’t respond to multiple requests for comment on Cassau’s proposal. The company declined to provide comment on its restructuring efforts. “Due to the usual confidentiality obligations, I cannot comment on any correspondence regarding my involvement in the company,” Cassau, who currently owns 12.5% of Grover, said by email. “I still consider Grover to be a company with enormous potential and believe that under my leadership, Grover can be one of the leading startups in Germany, Europe and worldwide.” Grover’s financial troubles echo many startups in Germany that achieved massive valuations when low interest rates at the start of the decade helped fuel cash-burning operations. Grover said in 2021 it was valued at over $1 billion, before false starts like a failed push into the US market and rising interest rates left it with a heavy debt burden. German-speaking countries are on track to have fewer technology unicorns this year for the first time since 2015, according an October report by boutique investment bank Clipperton. Grover has hired US investment bank Houlihan Lokey Inc. to advise on restructuring its debt, according to documents reviewed by Bloomberg and people familiar with the matter. Consultants McKinsey & Co. and AlixPartners are also advising the startup, according to the presentation and a person familiar with the situation. Spokespeople for Houlihan Lokey, AlixPartners and McKinsey declined to comment. The company has raised at least €800 million in debt funding in Europe and $250 million in the US, according to a press release Grover issued in September 2022. It identified M&G and Fasanara Capital in statements as among its lenders. A spokesperson for M&G declined to comment. Fasanara didn’t respond to multiple requests for comment. Cassau is calling for votes at the Dec. 17 meeting to dismiss interim Chief Executive Officer Linda Rubin and Chairman Franco Danesi and reinstate himself at the company’s helm, according to documents reviewed by Bloomberg. By German law, these items must be added to the agenda. Under Cassau’s plan, Grover would raise $150 million with a new convertible loan and restructure asset-backed debt in the first quarter of 2025 while cutting payroll, general and administrative expenses by at least 75%, the presentation shows. The size of the payment to current equity holders who sign on to Cassau’s program is contingent on Grover improving its valuation, according to the proposal. Since Cassau left, Rubin has taken several cost-saving measures, including pulling the company out of the US market, scrapping new products and slashing staff by about one-third to 300 workers, according to press releases and local media reports. Grover said it raised money in July with €50 million in a bridge financing round from investors including Circularity Capital, Energy Impact Partners and Korelya. German newspaper Handelsblatt reported at the time that the funding deal cut the company’s valuation to less than $1 billion. —With assistance from Libby Cherry.

House rejects Democratic efforts to force release of Matt Gaetz ethics reportA number of elected Mohave County officials, and their counterparts across the state, have significant pay raises to celebrate this holiday season. The salary increases take effect the first of the year. In Mohave County, nine positions will see their annual salaries increased from $63,800 to $83,800. They include each of the five Board of Supervisors posts, the Assessor, Treasurer, Recorder and School Superintendent. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.A pot plant tree, homemade gifts: How to have a sustainable Christmas

Stock market today: Wall Street drifts lower as it waits for inflation data

The Timberwolves have managed to tame a difficult portion of the schedule with three straight victories that have come in varying forms. But one thing has been consistent throughout: Drama. Minnesota rallied in the fourth, then held on for dear life in the closing seconds of Sunday’s 112-110 victory over the San Antonio Spurs at Target Center. ADVERTISEMENT The Wolves’ last three wins have come by a combined nine points. San Antonio had the ball, down two with 13 seconds to play, but Jeremy Sochan’s 3-point attempt at the horn fell woefully short. After another stiflingly slow start — the Wolves trailed 21-10 at one point in the opening frame — the bench unit again breathed life into the operation with pace and intensity. Minnesota blitzed the Spurs 32-12 in the second quarter to take a 12-point advantage into halftime. San Antonio responded, though, taking an eight-point advantage early in the fourth quarter. But, for the third straight game, Minnesota was able to generate decent offense down the stretch to close a game out. It was largely done with defense down the stretch Sunday, as Minnesota induced a number of 3-point misses from Victor Wembanyama down the stretch. Wembanyama finished with 34 points and eight rebounds but also missed a critical free throw that would’ve tied the game with 18 seconds to play. Donte DiVincenzo continued his recent stretch of success. He followed up Friday’s 22-point showing in Houston by scoring 25 points Sunday. As he stood on the floor for a postgame, television interview, Target Center erupted into a “Donte!” chat. He smiled. A rough start now seems to be firmly played in his rearview mirror. ADVERTISEMENT “It’s special,” the wing noted. ______________________________________________________ This story was written by one of our partner news agencies. Forum Communications Company uses content from agencies such as Reuters, Kaiser Health News, Tribune News Service and others to provide a wider range of news to our readers. Learn more about the news services FCC uses here .Dr. Ekua Amoako, a communications team member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has questioned the ongoing attacks by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Electoral Commissioner Jean Mensa, calling out the party’s persistent accusations of election rigging. In a statement, Dr. Amoako expressed concern over the NDC’s repeated claims that the Electoral Commission (EC) is attempting to manipulate election results. She pointed out that despite these allegations, the NDC had secured a significant margin of victory in several areas, questioning where the supposed rigging had taken place. “We made efforts to ensure peaceful elections. Yet, every day, the NDC accuses the EC of rigging. They will continue to say this, but they managed to win with a significant margin, so where is the rigging?” Dr. Amoako said. She further expressed sympathy for Jean Mensa, who has been the focal point of these attacks. “The focus on Jean Mensa is so intense that at times, I feel for her. What is her crime? Her only crime is being the EC. She is simply trying to do the right thing,” Dr. Amoako added. Dr. Amoako also defended the re-coalition of seven disputed constituencies, which had been the subject of contention following a High Court ruling. She argued that the re-coalition process was necessary, claiming that some polling agents had been pressured to declare results in favor of the NDC. The seven constituencies—Ahafo Ano North, Techiman South, Ahafo Ano South West, Nsawam Adoagyiri, Obuasi East, Okaikwei Central, and Tema Central—were all declared for the NPP after the re-collation. Following this process, the NDC’s General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, condemned the re-collation, describing it as unlawful and manipulated, and announced that the NDC rejected the results. Dr. Amoako’s comments reflect a deepening divide between the NPP and NDC over the credibility of the Electoral Commission’s actions, especially concerning the re-collation of results and the allegations surrounding it.

The Prime Minister said the season was a time to remember the importance of “being there for one another”, including in “the more difficult times”. He also expressed hope for “peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story” amid spiralling conflict across the region. The message comes after a challenging first five months in office for the Labour Government and against the backdrop of a flatlining economy and rising inflation. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, people will be travelling up and down the country. Heading home, visiting relatives and loved ones to celebrate together the hope and joy of this special season. “It’s a time to remind ourselves what’s really important. Family. Friendship. And fellowship between all people. “Being there for one another – in these celebrations, as well as the more difficult times.” The Prime Minister sought to strike an optimistic note following another year of political upheaval for Britain, which saw Labour win a landslide victory after a surprise election called by Rishi Sunak in the summer. After taking office in July, the new Government made a series of unpopular decisions as ministers confronted the realities of creaking public services and strained national finances. As well as dealing with the economic inheritance, Sir Keir said he needed to fix a “broken society” which manifested itself in summer riots across the country after the Southport knife attack. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, I will be hoping for peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story. “I’ll be looking towards a better, brighter future for every person and celebrating the joy and wonder that Christmas brings. “So, from my family to yours, I hope you have a very merry Christmas.” The message comes after revised official figures released on Monday indicated that UK gross domestic product (GDP) showed no growth between July and September. Downing Street defended the Government’s record so far when asked about the data, telling reporters: “We had to take those tough decisions to lay the foundations of growth such that we can then deliver the higher living standards over this Parliament that people want to see.” The Prime Minister also used his message to thank those spending Christmas serving others, including in the NHS and emergency services, the armed forces, churches and charities. “I know that this is not an easy time for everyone, and my thoughts are with all those who are lonely this Christmas. “Having a tough time, missing a loved one. You are not alone,” he said. Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch said Christmas was a time to reflect on “all that’s happened in the year” and “support all of those people who need our assistance”. “I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone, not just in the Conservative Party or in my constituency, but across the country,” the Tory leader said. “For all that you have been doing in your communities, supporting each other and helping to keep all our towns, villages and places going. “I think that Christmas is a time for us to reflect on all that’s happened in the year. “Sometimes we have amazing years. “Sometimes, like when I lost my dad, we have difficult years and we’re commiserating, but we do it together. “But it’s a time for us to support all of those people who need our assistance, who need our help, who need our support.” She added: “And I’m looking forward to 2025. “I wish you all the very best for the New Year and all of the exciting things to come.” Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: “This year, I’ve had the chance to spend time with some amazing young carers. “Incredible young people who will spend this Christmas doing what they do all year round; looking after loved ones who are ill or disabled. “Carers embody the Christmas spirit of love, selflessness and generosity. “So I hope we can all take some time to think of them, and keep them in our hearts. “And wish them – and everyone – a Christmas full of peace, joy and love.”WASHINGTON — The House shut down Democrats' efforts Thursday to release the long-awaited ethics report into former Rep. Matt Gaetz, pushing the fate of any resolution to the yearslong investigation of sexual misconduct allegations into further uncertainty. Matt Gaetz talks before President-elect Donald Trump speaks during an America First Policy Institute gala at his Mar-a-Lago estate Nov. 14 in Palm Beach, Fla. The nearly party-line votes came after Democrats had been pressing for the findings to be published even though the Florida Republican left Congress and withdrew as President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general. Rep. Tom McClintock, R-Calif., was the sole Republican to support the effort. Most Republicans have argued that any congressional probe into Gaetz ended when he resigned from the House. Speaker Mike Johnson also requested that the committee not publish its report, saying it would be a terrible precedent to set. While ethics reports have previously been released after a member’s resignation, it is extremely rare. Shortly before the votes took place, Rep. Sean Casten, D-Ill., who introduced one of the bills to force the release, said that if Republicans reject the release, they will have “succeeded in sweeping credible allegations of sexual misconduct under the rug.” Gaetz has repeatedly denied the claims. Earlier Thursday, the Ethics panel met to discuss the Gaetz report but made no decision, saying in a short statement that the matter is still being discussed. It's unclear now whether the document will ever see the light of day as lawmakers have only a few weeks left before a new session of Congress begins. It's the culmination of weeks of pressure on the Ethics committee's five Republicans and five Democrats who mostly work in secret as they investigate allegations of misconduct against lawmakers. The status of the Gaetz investigation became an open question last month when he abruptly resigned from Congress after Trump's announcement that he wanted his ally in the Cabinet. It is standard practice for the committee to end investigations when members of Congress depart, but the circumstances surrounding Gaetz were unusual, given his potential role in the new administration. Rep. Michael Guest, R-Miss., the committee chairman, said Wednesday that there is no longer the same urgency to release the report given that Gaetz has left Congress and stepped aside as Trump's choice to head the Justice Department. “I’ve been steadfast about that. He’s no longer a member. He is no longer going to be confirmed by the Senate because he withdrew his nomination to be the attorney general,” Guest said. The Gaetz report has also caused tensions between lawmakers on the bipartisan committee. Pennsylvania Rep. Susan Wild, the top Democrat on the panel, publicly admonished Guest last month for mischaracterizing a previous meeting to the press. Gaetz has denied any wrongdoing and said last year that the Justice Department’s separate investigation against him into sex trafficking allegations involving underage girls ended without federal charges. His onetime political ally Joel Greenberg, a fellow Republican who served as the tax collector in Florida’s Seminole County, admitted as part of a plea deal with prosecutors in 2021 that he paid women and an underage girl to have sex with him and other men. The men were not identified in court documents when he pleaded guilty. Greenberg was sentenced in late 2022 to 11 years in prison. Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio for secretary of state, former Democratic House member Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Trump named Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat. Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement. The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea. Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda. Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic. She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race. Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day. In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation. “There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and then endorsed Trump . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign. The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction. He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. “This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle. McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Brooke Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency. The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. She previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social. Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration. The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. Doug Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial, which centered on U.S. assistance for Ukraine. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential nomination, but he was acquitted by the Senate. Collins has also served in the armed forces himself and is currently a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. "We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need," Trump said in a statement about nominating Collins to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps. Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has been tapped by Trump to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields. Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement. Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next. Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. “I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Kash Patel spent several years as a Justice Department prosecutor before catching the Trump administration’s attention as a staffer on Capitol Hill who helped investigate the Russia probe. Patel called for dramatically reducing the agency’s footprint, a perspective that sets him apart from earlier directors who sought additional resources for the bureau. Though the Justice Department in 2021 halted the practice of secretly seizing reporters’ phone records during leak investigations, Patel said he intends to aggressively hunt down government officials who leak information to reporters. Trump has chosen former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin to serve as his pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency . Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added. During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband. Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission. Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Trump said Atkins, the CEO of Patomak Partners and a former SEC commissioner, was a “proven leader for common sense regulations.” In the years since leaving the SEC, Atkins has made the case against too much market regulation. “He believes in the promise of robust, innovative capital markets that are responsive to the needs of Investors, & that provide capital to make our Economy the best in the World. He also recognizes that digital assets & other innovations are crucial to Making America Greater than Ever Before,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. The commission oversees U.S. securities markets and investments and is currently led by Gary Gensler, who has been leading the U.S. government’s crackdown on the crypto industry. Gensler, who was nominated by President Joe Biden, announced last month that he would be stepping down from his post on the day that Trump is inaugurated — Jan. 20, 2025. Atkins began his career as a lawyer and has a long history working in the financial markets sector, both in government and private practice. In the 1990s, he worked on the staffs of two former SEC chairmen, Richard C. Breeden and Arthur Levitt. Jared Isaacman, 41, is a tech billionaire who bought a series of spaceflights from Elon Musk’s SpaceX and conducted the first private spacewalk . He is the founder and CEO of a card-processing company and has collaborated closely with Musk ever since buying his first chartered SpaceX flight. He took contest winners on that 2021 trip and followed it in September with a mission where he briefly popped out the hatch to test SpaceX’s new spacewalking suits. Rep. Elise Stefanik is a representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment. Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. President-elect Donald Trump says he's chosen former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker to serve as U.S. ambassador to NATO. Trump has expressed skepticism about the Western military alliance for years. Trump said in a statement Wednesday that Whitaker is “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who “will ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended” and “strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability.” The choice of Whitaker as the nation’s representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an unusual one, given his background is as a lawyer and not in foreign policy. Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah. “He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud." Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Trump said Wednesday that he will nominate Gen. Keith Kellogg to serve as assistant to the president and special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as National Security Advisor to Trump's former Vice President Mike Pence. For the America First Policy Institute, one of several groups formed after Trump left office to help lay the groundwork for the next Republican administration, Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib) Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday. The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. “Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!” Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Stephen Miller, an immigration hardliner , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Thomas Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign. Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.” Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. Former Rep. Billy Long represented Missouri in the U.S. House from 2011 to 2023. Since leaving Congress, Trump said, Long “has worked as a Business and Tax advisor, helping Small Businesses navigate the complexities of complying with the IRS Rules and Regulations.” Former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler was appointed in January 2020 by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and then lost a runoff election a year later. She started a conservative voter registration organization and dived into GOP fundraising, becoming one of the top individual donors and bundlers to Trump’s 2024 comeback campaign. Even before nominating her for agriculture secretary, the president-elect already had tapped Loeffler as co-chair of his inaugural committee. Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency. The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate. Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency. After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Dan Scavino, deputy chief of staff Scavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. James Blair, deputy chief of staff Blair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago. Taylor Budowich, deputy chief of staff Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency. Jay Bhattacharya, National Institutes of Health Trump has chosen Dr. Jay Bhattacharya to lead the National Institutes of Health. Bhattacharya is a physician and professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, and is a critic of pandemic lockdowns and vaccine mandates. He promoted the idea of herd immunity during the pandemic, arguing that people at low risk should live normally while building up immunity to COVID-19 through infection. The National Institutes of Health funds medical research through competitive grants to researchers at institutions throughout the nation. NIH also conducts its own research with thousands of scientists working at its labs in Bethesda, Maryland. Dr. Marty Makary, Food and Drug Administration Makary is a Johns Hopkins surgeon and author who argued against pandemic lockdowns. He routinely appeared on Fox News during the COVID-19 pandemic and wrote opinion articles questioning masks for children. He cast doubt on vaccine mandates but supported vaccines generally. Makary also cast doubt on whether booster shots worked, which was against federal recommendations on the vaccine. Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, Surgeon General Nesheiwat is a general practitioner who serves as medical director for CityMD, a network of urgent care centers in New York and New Jersey. She has been a contributor to Fox News. Dr. Dave Weldon, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Weldon is a former Florida congressman who recently ran for a Florida state legislative seat and lost; Trump backed Weldon’s opponent. In Congress, Weldon weighed in on one of the nation’s most heated debates of the 1990s over quality of life and a right-to-die and whether Terri Schiavo, who was in a persistent vegetative state after cardiac arrest, should have been allowed to have her feeding tube removed. He sided with the parents who did not want it removed. Jamieson Greer, U.S. trade representative Kevin Hassett, Director of the White House National Economic Council Trump is turning to two officials with experience navigating not only Washington but the key issues of income taxes and tariffs as he fills out his economic team. He announced he has chosen international trade attorney Jamieson Greer to be his U.S. trade representative and Kevin Hassett as director of the White House National Economic Council. While Trump has in several cases nominated outsiders to key posts, these picks reflect a recognition that his reputation will likely hinge on restoring the public’s confidence in the economy. Trump said in a statement that Greer was instrumental in his first term in imposing tariffs on China and others and replacing the trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, “therefore making it much better for American Workers.” Hassett, 62, served in the first Trump term as chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers. He has a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania and worked at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute before joining the Trump White House in 2017. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.

Diljit Dosanjh dedicates Guwahati concert to Manmohan Singh

India stresses climate equity, warns against overburdening citizens

Apple is warning billions of Mac and MacBook users worldwide to update macOS as a matter of priority. The latest version of macOS Sequoia was released earlier this week as macOS 15.1.1. It comes less than a month after the major 15.1 release that addressed several small bugs and security fixes alongside the first wave of generative AI software in the Apple Intelligence suite. What Issues Face Apple’s Mac And MacBook Pro Laptops? Release notes for macOS Sequoia 15.1.1 list two issues addressed. The first is a fix to the JavaScriptCore (concerning “maliciously crafted web content”), the second fixes an issue with WebKit (concerning “Processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to a cross site scripting attack”). These are recorded as CVE-2024-44308 and CVE-2024-44309. Forbes contributor Kate O’Flahery has delved into the technical issues of these attacks . The importance of applying this update has been reinforced thanks to an intervention by the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency " "Apple released security updates to address vulnerabilities in multiple Apple products. A cyber threat actor could exploit some of these vulnerabilities to take control of an affected system. CISA encourages users and administrators to review the following advisories and apply necessary updates:" Update More Than Your Apple MacBook Pro The macOS update was launched simultaneously with iOS (18.1.1) and iPadOS (18.1.1) updates . Forbes’ contributor David Phelan has taken a closer look at the iPhone update —as well as the update to iOS 18 for the current range, Apple is providing an update to iOS 17 to ensure the fixes are available for the broadest range of iPhones as possible. macOS Sequoia supports every Mac and MacBook that runs on Apple Silicon. In addition to any Mac with these M-series chipsets, macOS Sequoia also supports several Intel-powered Macs—namely those with the Xeon W and Coffee Lake or later chipset. Effectively that means the iMac Pros released since 2017, iMacs released since 2019, MacBook Pros since 2018, Mac Minis since 2018, and Mac Pros since 2019 are also supported and should be upgraded as soon as possible. How To Update Your Apple Mac And MacBook Pro To start a manual update to macOS 15.1.1, go to the System Settings / General / Software Update and click Update Now. This is in a different location on older Mac hardware,, go to System Preferences and click Software Update. Now read the latest MacBook, iPhone, and App Store headlines in Forbes’ weekly Apple Loop news digest...

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50jili site Lokesh helps troubled woman return to Nellore from Kuwait“Educated women raise educated families.” In Pakistan, the pervasive nature of such regressive beliefs reduces girls’ education to an optional inconvenience borne by their parents until they possess the bare minimum academic skills necessary to qualify for marriage and help their own children with their homework. Under this absurd logic, educating a daughter is only valued as long as she has marriage and motherhood on the cards in the near future. Therefore, when societal stigmas and reproductive myths surrounding disability diminish the marriage prospects for girls with special mobility needs, many young women on wheelchairs are doomed to spend the rest of their lives in illiteracy. Where female literacy in the country remains low regardless of ability, data obtained from the report titled “The Missing Third of Pakistan” published by the Pak Alliance for Maths and Science (PAMS) indicates that nearly 83 per cent of female children with disability are out of school. Conversely, only 17 per cent of girls with disabilities are in school, which is roughly three quarters of the national literacy rate among girls above the age of 15. Where stereotypes surrounding both girls’ education and disability can partly explain the abysmal trend, the failure of the government to cater to the special infrastructural, mobility, transport, hygiene and safety needs of female children with physical disabilities has only heightened their academic exclusion, relegating them to a life of socio-economic deprivation and isolation. “Although some efforts have been made by the state, such as the opening of special education schools at the district level, they are more or less insufficient. The teachers lack training in special education while the schools are generally inaccessible, especially when it comes to toilets. Either there are no policies ensuring education to differently-abled girls, or the existing ones are not being implemented,” opined Anbreen Ajaib, an Islamabad-based women’s rights activist. Inadequate data, facilities and infrastructure The first step towards improving literacy among differently-abled female children would involve identifying the exact number of girls with disabilities that are out school, which unfortunately, no state organization across the country has been able to gather till date. “UN statistics show that approximately 15 per cent of Pakistan's population consists of individuals with disabilities. However, we have no accurate data on the number of out-of-school children with disabilities,’ confessed Farman Ali, Deputy Director of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Karachi region. Going by the estimates obtained by the Dawah Academy for Special Children, almost 90 per cent of children with physical disabilities are out of school, primarily due to the scarcity of special education schools in Sindh, which are catering to only 4,500 differently-abled students. Sources claim that out of 66 educational institutions established in Sindh by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, most do not offer education beyond matriculation. According to data, only eight educational institutions are registered for students with disabilities in Karachi, where just 40 female students appeared for the matriculation exams in 2023 followed by 64 in 2024. The ratio of female students dropped further for the intermediate level, where from across six registered colleges, only 27 girls took the exam in 2023 while 33 appeared for the exam in 2024. In Punjab, date obtained from the Department of Special Education, revealed that out of a total of 3000 differently-abled children studying at special schools, only 839 were girls. Unsurprisingly, the department too had no data on the number of out of school girls with disabilities. According to the spokesperson, currently 303 institutions have been established by the Special Education Institute. At present, the on-ground reality is that there are only three functional institutions for disabled children at the middle level with two at the high school level. Apart from these, there are no public institutions to provide basic education to differently-abled children. Miles up north in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and its merged areas, data from the Social Welfare Department K-P revealed that only 364 girls with physical disabilities were enrolled across schools in the province. Imran Takkar, a children’s rights activist from Peshawar, confirmed that the scarcity of trained teachers, accessible learning materials, and basic facilities had complicated education for girls living with disabilities. “Those in the rural and remote areas are particularly disadvantaged since travelling to far-off specialized institutions can be both financially and physically challenging for families,” said Takkar. Concurring with Takkar, Farida Shaheed, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to education, also believed that government schools were not equipped with the teachers and materials necessary for facilitating students with disabilities. “Teachers are not trained on the educational needs of students with disabilities, while educational materials are seldom available in alternative formats, such as Braille, large print, accessible multimedia, Easy Read, plain language, or sign language,” regretted Shaheed. The intersection of gender and ability The concept of intersectionality predicts that the secondary status of a subordinated individual or community is magnified when they happen to be situated at the intersection of two or more marginalized identities. For instance, a differently-abled girl will be dually targeted by both ableism and chauvinism, ending up with a lower societal status and lesser educational opportunities than those afforded to a differently-abled boy or an able-bodied girl. According to Anbreen Ajaib, Executive Director at Bedari, an NGO working on women empowerment, gender stereotypes and societal attitudes significantly contributed to the exclusion of girls with disabilities from education. “Generally, girls are discouraged from pursuing education beyond the primary level, and for those with disabilities, the barriers are even greater. Many families view girls with disabilities as a "curse" or "burden" and see education as irrelevant to their lives, often believing it won’t change their future prospects. This perspective leads to these girls being deprived not only of education but also of social value, with their aspirations and potential ignored,” observed Ajaib. Agreeing with Ajaib, Qari Saad Noor, a disability rights activist from K-P, also felt that societal taboos surrounding disability prevented parents from educating their differently-abled daughters. “While some destitute parents are forced to leave their daughters on the roads to beg, those from well-off households keep them locked up in their homes out of shame,” revealed Noor. Sharing her views on the matter, Shaheed, who is also a feminist human rights activist highlighted the fact that numerous challenges hindered the education of girls with disabilities, starting with the compounding of a general view in our cultural normative framework that girls did not require education. “This belief is intensified when it comes to girls with disabilities since many a times their families are just too ashamed,” claimed Shaheed, who further revealed that during a research she conducted during COVID-19, women living with disabilities underscored the need to educate their own families about their disability. Menstrual hygiene and WASH facilities Given the countless stigmas surrounding menstruation, girls reaching menarche are often rushed through the critical transition into womanhood with minimal guidance and assistance from both mothers and teachers. Yet where able-bodied girls may eventually figure out the peculiarities of placing a sanitary napkin correctly, for those with physical disabilities, avoiding an embarrassing stain at school during that time of the month can become a challenge. According to a report published by the UNICEF, girls with disabilities are often seen as asexual and are rarely given information on their reproductive health and managing their period independently. Furthermore, inaccessible water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities also act as a major barrier hindering girls with disabilities from attending school. “Gender stereotypes label girls with disabilities as asexual, leaving them neglected and excluded from personal and educational growth,” noted Ajaib. Speaking of the specific challenges faced by girl children with disabilities in managing menstrual hygiene at school, Ajaib highlighted the lack of accessible restrooms with WASH facilities. “In Pakistan, girls with disabilities face severe barriers to education, including bullying and stigmatization, which discourages their attendance and hinders their learning. This is aggravated by the fact that menstrual hygiene facilities like toilets are often inaccessible, making it difficult for these girls to manage their hygiene needs with privacy and dignity,” said Ajaib. “Since menstrual management is a taboo subject in Pakistan, schools may also be reluctant or refuse to provide personal assistance with toileting to menstruating girls with disabilities,” added Shaheed, Executive Director at Shirkat Gah, a gender justice organization. Risk of gender-based violence and transportation issues In societies with a high incidence of violence against women (VAW), self-defence programs offer training on a variety of manoeuvres and moves which can help a girl or woman escape a dangerous encounter. However, no punch or kick can come in handy for a victim who is bound to a wheelchair. According to UN Women, women with disabilities face similar forms of gender-based violence to women without disabilities, but at significantly higher rates, more frequently, over a longer period of time and at an increased risk of severe injury. Furthermore, according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) girls and young women with disabilities may face up to 10 times more violence than those without while the European Parliament found that women with disabilities were four times more likely than other women to suffer sexual violence. “Girls with disabilities are vulnerable to harassment however, due to prevailing misconceptions, their reports are often not believed, leaving them unprotected and unsupported. Fearing harassment, families tend to keep these girls overly protected at home, which further isolates them. Ironically, this protection doesn’t shield them from abuse, as some face harassment and violence from untrained caregivers,” highlighted Ajaib. Ajaib believed that instead of fostering empowerment, the prevalent approach towards girls with disabilities tends to rely on sympathy, offering little in terms of meaningful support. “While most districts have a single school dedicated to special education, these are often geared towards boys and are located far from girls' reach. The lack of accessible transportation further limits these girls' ability to attend school, leaving them excluded from the educational opportunities they deserve,” lamented Ajiab. Expanding on Ajaib’s analysis, Shaheed, also felt that access to safe transport was a major obstacle facing all girl students especially those with disabilities who may need escorts or helpers to accompany them. Prioritizing education for girls with disabilities The law of diminishing marginal utility governs that the value of a thousand-rupee bill depends on the socioeconomic status of the person receiving it. While an employee with a six-figure salary might barely notice the amount credited to their account, for a beggar on the road chasing odd coins throughout the day, a benefactor offering the same amount would signal a day of celebration. Thereby, investing in the education of girls with disabilities as a priority will yield much higher returns to schooling than those expected from the education of girl’s without disabilities, uplifting the dually marginalized group both socially and economically in the coming future. Ajaib believed that denying education to girls with disabilities was a violation of their fundamental rights and signaled a failure of the state to uphold its international commitments to inclusive education. “Education is essential for girls with disabilities to unlock their potential and our experience has shown that when given proper opportunities, girls with disabilities can achieve remarkable outcomes. Educating them enables self-sufficiency, helping them become independent, skilled contributors to their families and communities rather than a perceived "burden." Furthermore, as they gain skills and enter the workforce, they strengthen the country's economy and set examples that challenge stereotypes. Failing to educate them, however, perpetuates a cycle of dependence, marginalization, and missed opportunities for societal growth and economic development,” urged Ajaib. Expanding on the pitfalls of denying education to girls with disabilities, Professor Raheel Karim, former Head of the King Edward Medical College, revealed that neglecting the educational needs of children with disabilities can often lead to the development of mental health issues. “Despite possessing the same potential as other children, children with disabilities are discriminated against by parents and society, discouraging their personal growth and preventing them from becoming productive citizens,” noted Karim, currently serving as a psychiatric consultant in the United Kingdom. In light of the overall stigma associated with children with disabilities, Ajaib was of the opinion that in order to promote education, teachers required targeted training, not only in teaching methods for students with disabilities but also in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. “This includes breaking down stigmas and ensuring all students understand and respect disability as part of human diversity. Furthermore, providing scholarships to girls with disabilities is essential to help them cover transportation costs, making regular attendance more feasible for families who might otherwise keep them at home,” she added. Ajaib went on to highlight that addressing the intersection of gender and ability in the country’s education system required a commitment to making all schools inclusive and accessible, a process, which in her opinion could start by adapting school infrastructures to support physical disabilities. “Once schools are physically accessible, they should be progressively equipped to support other disabilities, including visual and hearing impairments, with specialized resources and assistive technologies,” implored Ajaib who also believed that with education, girls with disabilities could better manage personal hygiene and protect themselves against harassment, reducing their vulnerability. Role of parents, teachers, media, and the state Battling illiteracy among girls with disabilities is impossible without the combined efforts of parents, teachers, the media, and the government, who all have an essential role in supporting the education of differently-abled girls, by creating and promoting a more inclusive environment. Ajaib expressed her view that parents of differently-abled girls can play a pivotal role by actively advocating for their daughters’ rights to education and pushing against societal stigmas that discourage them from attending school. By providing emotional support, encouraging independence, and seeking educational opportunities, parents can empower their daughters and instill confidence in their abilities. “Secondly, teachers are crucial in creating an enabling environment within schools. With proper training in special education and inclusive teaching practices, teachers can provide tailored support to differently-abled girls, ensure their participation, and foster a positive classroom culture. Teachers can also raise awareness among other students, promoting empathy and understanding,” she claimed. “Furthermore, the government has the responsibility to make inclusive education a priority. This includes implementing policies that make all schools accessible, providing specialized resources, and training teachers to meet diverse needs. The government should also monitor policy implementation to ensure accessibility standards are met across schools,” suggested Ajaib. Ajaib went on to highlight the media’s ability to shift societal attitudes by raising awareness about the potential of differently-abled girls and the importance of their education. In her opinion, media campaigns can highlight success stories, break down misconceptions, and encourage families and communities to support these girls while simultaneously holding institutions accountable for providing inclusive education, sparking broader societal support for this cause. “Another important stakeholder is civil society organizations. These organizations can play an effective role by acting as watchdogs, providing technical assistance to the government in developing and implementing policies, and raising awareness through community outreach programs. By introducing public-private partnerships, the government and civil society organizations can share resources and bridge gaps to ensure inclusive education for all,” noted Ajaib. On a similar note, Farida Shaheed, who is also a sociologist proposed a comprehensive approach to tackling the discrimination facing girls with disabilities and promoting their education. “Orientation sessions must be organized for parents, siblings and other household members of girls with disabilities. Similarly, mass public awareness campaigns must be initiated through social media to promote acceptance of girls with disabilities. Furthermore, the government must support schemes for girls with disabilities so that families consider them as an asset and not a burden,” claimed Shaheed. “By combining these efforts, Pakistan can ensure that differently-abled female children have the chance to thrive in school and to fulfill their potential in society,” concluded Ajaib, who is also an expert on social justice and human rights.Milan's Via MonteNapoleone usurps New York's Fifth Avenue as world's most upscale shopping street

NEW YORK (AP) — Remember what you searched for in 2024? Google does. Google released its annual “Year in Search” on Tuesday, rounding up the top trending queries entered into its namesake search engine in 2024. The results show terms that saw the highest spike in traffic compared to last year — ranging from key news events, notably global elections , to the most popular songs, athletes and unforgettable pop-culture moments that people looked up worldwide. Sports — particularly soccer and cricket — dominated Google's overall trending searches in 2024. Copa América topped those search trends globally, followed by the UEFA European Championship and ICC Men's T20 World Cup . Meanwhile, the U.S. election led news-specific searches worldwide. Queries about excessive heat and this year's Olympic Games followed. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump topped searches in Google's people category this year — followed by Catherine, Princess of Wales , U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Algerian boxer Imane Khelif , who also led athlete-specific searches. Meanwhile, the late Liam Payne , Toby Keith and O.J. Simpson led search trends among notable individuals who died in 2024. In the world of entertainment, Disney and Pixar's “Inside Out 2” was the top trending movie of the year, while Netflix's “Baby Reindeer” led TV show trends. And Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” dominated song trends. That's just the tip of the iceberg. Queries for the Olympic village's chocolate muffin , made famous by Norwegian swimmer Henrik Christiansen over the summer games, led Google's global recipe trends this year. The New York Times' “Connections” puzzle topped game searches. And in the U.S., country-specific data shows, many people asked Google about online trends like the word “demure” and “ mob wife aesthetic .” You can find more country-specific lists, and trends from years past , through Google’s “Year in Search” data published online . The California company said it collected 2024 search results from Jan. 1 through Nov. 23 of this year. Google isn't the only one to publish an annual recap or top trends as 2024 draws to a close. Spotify Wrapped , for example, as well as Collins Dictionary and Merriam-Webster’s words of the year, have offered additional reflections for 2024.

Seneca Foods stock soars to all-time high of $74.06

House rejects Democratic efforts to force release of Matt Gaetz ethics reportNoneLuigi Nicholas Mangione, the suspect in the fatal shooting of a healthcare executive in New York City, apparently was living a charmed life: the grandson of a wealthy real estate developer, valedictorian of his elite Baltimore prep school and with degrees from one of the nation's top private universities. Friends at an exclusive co-living space at the edge of touristy Waikiki in Hawaii where the 26-year-old Mangione once lived widely considered him a “great guy,” and pictures on his social media accounts show a fit, smiling, handsome young man on beaches and at parties. Now, investigators in New York and Pennsylvania are working to piece together why Mangione may have diverged from this path to make the violent and radical decision to gun down UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in a brazen attack on a Manhattan street. The killing sparked widespread discussions about corporate greed, unfairness in the medical insurance industry and even inspired folk-hero sentiment toward his killer. But Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro sharply refuted that perception after Mangione's arrest on Monday when a customer at a McDonald's restaurant in Pennsylvania spotted Mangione eating and noticed he resembled the shooting suspect in security-camera photos released by New York police. “In some dark corners, this killer is being hailed as a hero. Hear me on this, he is no hero,” Shapiro said. “The real hero in this story is the person who called 911 at McDonald’s this morning.” Mangione comes from a prominent Maryland family. His grandfather, Nick Mangione, who died in 2008, was a successful real estate developer. One of his best-known projects was Turf Valley Resort, a sprawling luxury retreat and conference center outside Baltimore that he purchased in 1978. The Mangione family also purchased Hayfields Country Club north of Baltimore in 1986. On Monday, Baltimore County police officers blocked off an entrance to the property, which public records link to Luigi Mangione’s parents. Reporters and photographers gathered outside the entrance. The father of 10 children, Nick Mangione prepared his five sons — including Luigi Mangione’s father, Louis Mangione — to help manage the family business, according to a 2003 Washington Post report. Nick Mangione had 37 grandchildren, including Luigi, according to the grandfather's obituary. Luigi Mangione’s grandparents donated to charities through the Mangione Family Foundation, according to a statement from Loyola University commemorating Nick Mangione’s wife’s death in 2023. They donated to various causes, including Catholic organizations, colleges and the arts. One of Luigi Mangione’s cousins is Republican Maryland state legislator Nino Mangione, a spokesman for the lawmaker’s office confirmed. “Our family is shocked and devastated by Luigi’s arrest,” Mangione’s family said in a statement posted on social media by Nino Mangione. “We offer our prayers to the family of Brian Thompson and we ask people to pray for all involved.” Mangione, who was valedictorian of his elite Maryland prep school, earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in computer science in 2020 from the University of Pennsylvania, a university spokesman told The Associated Press. He learned to code in high school and helped start a club at Penn for people interested in gaming and game design, according to a 2018 story in Penn Today, a campus publication. His social media posts suggest he belonged to the fraternity Phi Kappa Psi. They also show him taking part in a 2019 program at Stanford University, and in photos with family and friends at the Jersey Shore and in Hawaii, San Diego, Puerto Rico, and other destinations. The Gilman School, from which Mangione graduated in 2016, is one of Baltimore’s elite prep schools. The children of some of the city’s wealthiest and most prominent residents, including Orioles legend Cal Ripken Jr., have attended the school. Its alumni include sportswriter Frank Deford and former Arizona Gov. Fife Symington. In his valedictory speech, Luigi Mangione described his classmates’ “incredible courage to explore the unknown and try new things.” Mangione took a software programming internship after high school at Maryland-based video game studio Firaxis, where he fixed bugs on the hit strategy game Civilization 6, according to a LinkedIn profile. Firaxis' parent company, Take-Two Interactive, said it would not comment on former employees. He more recently worked at the car-buying website TrueCar, but has not worked there since 2023, the head of the Santa Monica, California-based company confirmed to the AP. From January to June 2022, Mangione lived at Surfbreak, a “co-living” space at the edge of touristy Waikiki in Honolulu. Like other residents of the shared penthouse catering to remote workers, Mangione underwent a background check, said Josiah Ryan, a spokesperson for owner and founder R.J. Martin. “Luigi was just widely considered to be a great guy. There were no complaints,” Ryan said. “There was no sign that might point to these alleged crimes they’re saying he committed.” At Surfbreak, Martin learned Mangione had severe back pain from childhood that interfered with many aspects of his life, including surfing, Ryan said. “He went surfing with R.J. once but it didn’t work out because of his back,” Ryan said, but noted that Mangione and Martin often went together to a rock-climbing gym. Mangione left Surfbreak to get surgery on the mainland, Ryan said, then later returned to Honolulu and rented an apartment. An image posted to a social media account linked to Mangione showed what appeared to be an X-ray of a metal rod and multiple screws inserted into someone's lower spine. Martin stopped hearing from Mangione six months to a year ago. An X account linked to Mangione includes recent posts about the negative impact of smartphones on children; healthy eating and exercise habits; psychological theories; and a quote from Indian philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti about the dangers of becoming “well-adjusted to a profoundly sick society.” Mangione likely was motivated by his anger at what he called “parasitic” health insurance companies and a disdain for corporate greed, according to a law enforcement bulletin obtained by AP. He wrote that the U.S. has the most expensive healthcare system in the world and that the profits of major corporations continue to rise while “our life expectancy” does not, according to the bulletin, based on a review of the suspect’s handwritten notes and social media posts. He appeared to view the targeted killing of the UnitedHealthcare CEO as a symbolic takedown, asserting in his note that he is the “first to face it with such brutal honesty,” the bulletin said. Mangione called “Unabomber” Ted Kaczynski a “political revolutionary” and may have found inspiration from the man who carried out a series of bombings while railing against modern society and technology, the document said. Associated Press reporters Lea Skene in Baltimore; Jennifer Sinco Kelleher in Honolulu; Maryclaire Dale in Philadelphia; John Seewer in Toledo, Ohio; and Michael Kunzelman in Washington, D.C., contributed to this report.

Mexico Programmatic Ad Seller Quality Rankings Q3 2024: Sharethrough Tops Pixalate’s Web Seller Trust Index; Verve No. 1 on Mobile; Xandr Monetize Leads on Samsung Smart TV for CTVNew Delhi: India slammed developed countries for causing the climate crisis during a landmark hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Thursday, saying they exploited the global carbon budget, failed to honour climate-finance promises and are now demanding that developing countries restrict their resource use. The court is examining what legal obligations countries have to address climate change and the consequences if they fail. India also urged the ICJ to avoid creating new obligations that go beyond the existing climate-change framework. “The court may exercise due caution to avoid devising new or additional obligations beyond what is already agreed under the existing climate-change regime, which take into consideration historic emissions, climate justice and the principal principle of equity and CBDR-RC, as well as the equitable access to the global carbon budget,” the country said. China and the United States have also told the court that the existing UN framework is sufficient to determine States’ legal obligations to fight climate change. Making submissions on behalf of India, Luther M Rangreji, joint secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), said, “If contribution to degradation is unequal, responsibility must also be unequal.” He said climate change is a global problem that requires a global solution, but the solutions must respect the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities (CBDR-RC), which is at the heart of the climate-change regime. “It is inequitable and unjust to expect countries with negligible historical emissions to bear an equal burden in mitigating climate change.... Developed nations must lead by example by achieving net zero well before 2050 and providing the means of implementation to developing nations,” India said. Rangreji said developing nations are the hardest hit by climate change, despite contributing the least to it. “The developed world, which historically contributed the most, is ironically the best equipped with the technological and economic means to address this challenge,” the official said. He criticised rich countries for enjoying the benefits of fossil fuels while discouraging developing nations from using their own energy resources. “Countries which have reaped development benefits from exploiting fossil fuels demand developing countries to not utilise the energy resources available to them,” India argued. It said the obligations of developing countries under the Paris Agreement are dependent on the fulfilment of two important factors — one, aspects of climate finance and two, climate justice. India also slammed the lack of action on climate-finance commitments. “The USD 100 billion pledged at the Copenhagen COP in 2009 by developed country parties and the doubling of the contribution to the Adaptation Fund have not yet been translated into any concrete actions,” it noted. India called the new climate-finance package for the Global South agreed at COP29 in Azerbaijan’s Baku “too little, too distant” to meet the urgent needs of developing countries. “Climate finance is a critical enabler for planning and implementing ambitious climate actions and an essential element for building trust in climate multilateralism. Any fair or meaningful assessment of obligations of States cannot be conducted without simultaneously assessing the climate-finance support provided,” the country said. India stressed the principle of fairness and equity, saying, “If contribution to global environmental degradation is unequal, the responsibility should also be unequal.” The fast-developing South Asian nation also reaffirmed its commitment to its climate targets under the Paris Agreement but warned against overburdening its citizens. “There is a limit on how much we burden our citizens, even when India is pursuing Sustainable Development Goals for one-sixth of humanity,” it said. India is home to about 17.8 per cent of the current global population. However, its contribution to climate change is less than 4 per cent historically. “Our per capita greenhouse gas emissions are less than half of the global average. Nevertheless, India has been undertaking ambitious national climate actions in good faith as a solutions provider. “Despite having overriding priorities for poverty eradication and achieving Sustainable Development Goals, India has contributed more than its fair share in the global climate actions,” Rangreji stressed. The country also said the science behind climate change is evolving and it may carry biases based on the choices made in interpreting evidence. Therefore, it said, decisions on who should do what cannot be guided by science alone. The hearing is the result of years of campaigning by Pacific island nations and Vanuatu, which led to a UN resolution asking the ICJ for an advisory opinion. Over the next two weeks, 98 countries, including small island nations and large emitters, will present their views. Though non-binding, the ICJ’s opinion could set a moral and legal benchmark in the global fight against climate change.

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(Bloomberg) — The founder of the troubled device rental startup Grover who was forced out of the company a year ago is trying to stage a comeback by fighting a restructuring effort that may wipe out the value of investors’ equity. Michael Cassau, who created Grover in 2015 and left his post as chief executive officer last year after investors lost confidence in his leadership, is asking shareholders to now hand him their stakes in the German company so he can build a majority position, according to a presentation reviewed by Bloomberg. In exchange, he’s promising to issue them a deferred payment that values the startup at as much as €900 million ($945 million) if he can turn it around and achieve certain growth targets, the documents show. Cassau is looking to head off a plan by the startup’s current management team to restructure Grover’s debt in a way that he says would wipe out the value that existing equity holders have in the company, according to the presentation and people familiar with the situation, who asked not to be identified because the information is not public. Grover has used up half of its share capital, the money a company raises by issuing stock in its business, and plans to give investors an update on the state of restructuring efforts at a Dec. 17 meeting, a company notice reviewed by Bloomberg shows. Helge Reich, an attorney representing Grover, didn’t respond to multiple requests for comment on Cassau’s proposal. The company declined to provide comment on its restructuring efforts. “Due to the usual confidentiality obligations, I cannot comment on any correspondence regarding my involvement in the company,” Cassau, who currently owns 12.5% of Grover, said by email. “I still consider Grover to be a company with enormous potential and believe that under my leadership, Grover can be one of the leading startups in Germany, Europe and worldwide.” Grover’s financial troubles echo many startups in Germany that achieved massive valuations when low interest rates at the start of the decade helped fuel cash-burning operations. Grover said in 2021 it was valued at over $1 billion, before false starts like a failed push into the US market and rising interest rates left it with a heavy debt burden. German-speaking countries are on track to have fewer technology unicorns this year for the first time since 2015, according an October report by boutique investment bank Clipperton. Grover has hired US investment bank Houlihan Lokey Inc. to advise on restructuring its debt, according to documents reviewed by Bloomberg and people familiar with the matter. Consultants McKinsey & Co. and AlixPartners are also advising the startup, according to the presentation and a person familiar with the situation. Spokespeople for Houlihan Lokey, AlixPartners and McKinsey declined to comment. The company has raised at least €800 million in debt funding in Europe and $250 million in the US, according to a press release Grover issued in September 2022. It identified M&G and Fasanara Capital in statements as among its lenders. A spokesperson for M&G declined to comment. Fasanara didn’t respond to multiple requests for comment. Cassau is calling for votes at the Dec. 17 meeting to dismiss interim Chief Executive Officer Linda Rubin and Chairman Franco Danesi and reinstate himself at the company’s helm, according to documents reviewed by Bloomberg. By German law, these items must be added to the agenda. Under Cassau’s plan, Grover would raise $150 million with a new convertible loan and restructure asset-backed debt in the first quarter of 2025 while cutting payroll, general and administrative expenses by at least 75%, the presentation shows. The size of the payment to current equity holders who sign on to Cassau’s program is contingent on Grover improving its valuation, according to the proposal. Since Cassau left, Rubin has taken several cost-saving measures, including pulling the company out of the US market, scrapping new products and slashing staff by about one-third to 300 workers, according to press releases and local media reports. Grover said it raised money in July with €50 million in a bridge financing round from investors including Circularity Capital, Energy Impact Partners and Korelya. German newspaper Handelsblatt reported at the time that the funding deal cut the company’s valuation to less than $1 billion. —With assistance from Libby Cherry.

House rejects Democratic efforts to force release of Matt Gaetz ethics reportA number of elected Mohave County officials, and their counterparts across the state, have significant pay raises to celebrate this holiday season. The salary increases take effect the first of the year. In Mohave County, nine positions will see their annual salaries increased from $63,800 to $83,800. They include each of the five Board of Supervisors posts, the Assessor, Treasurer, Recorder and School Superintendent. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.A pot plant tree, homemade gifts: How to have a sustainable Christmas

Stock market today: Wall Street drifts lower as it waits for inflation data

The Timberwolves have managed to tame a difficult portion of the schedule with three straight victories that have come in varying forms. But one thing has been consistent throughout: Drama. Minnesota rallied in the fourth, then held on for dear life in the closing seconds of Sunday’s 112-110 victory over the San Antonio Spurs at Target Center. ADVERTISEMENT The Wolves’ last three wins have come by a combined nine points. San Antonio had the ball, down two with 13 seconds to play, but Jeremy Sochan’s 3-point attempt at the horn fell woefully short. After another stiflingly slow start — the Wolves trailed 21-10 at one point in the opening frame — the bench unit again breathed life into the operation with pace and intensity. Minnesota blitzed the Spurs 32-12 in the second quarter to take a 12-point advantage into halftime. San Antonio responded, though, taking an eight-point advantage early in the fourth quarter. But, for the third straight game, Minnesota was able to generate decent offense down the stretch to close a game out. It was largely done with defense down the stretch Sunday, as Minnesota induced a number of 3-point misses from Victor Wembanyama down the stretch. Wembanyama finished with 34 points and eight rebounds but also missed a critical free throw that would’ve tied the game with 18 seconds to play. Donte DiVincenzo continued his recent stretch of success. He followed up Friday’s 22-point showing in Houston by scoring 25 points Sunday. As he stood on the floor for a postgame, television interview, Target Center erupted into a “Donte!” chat. He smiled. A rough start now seems to be firmly played in his rearview mirror. ADVERTISEMENT “It’s special,” the wing noted. ______________________________________________________ This story was written by one of our partner news agencies. Forum Communications Company uses content from agencies such as Reuters, Kaiser Health News, Tribune News Service and others to provide a wider range of news to our readers. Learn more about the news services FCC uses here .Dr. Ekua Amoako, a communications team member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has questioned the ongoing attacks by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Electoral Commissioner Jean Mensa, calling out the party’s persistent accusations of election rigging. In a statement, Dr. Amoako expressed concern over the NDC’s repeated claims that the Electoral Commission (EC) is attempting to manipulate election results. She pointed out that despite these allegations, the NDC had secured a significant margin of victory in several areas, questioning where the supposed rigging had taken place. “We made efforts to ensure peaceful elections. Yet, every day, the NDC accuses the EC of rigging. They will continue to say this, but they managed to win with a significant margin, so where is the rigging?” Dr. Amoako said. She further expressed sympathy for Jean Mensa, who has been the focal point of these attacks. “The focus on Jean Mensa is so intense that at times, I feel for her. What is her crime? Her only crime is being the EC. She is simply trying to do the right thing,” Dr. Amoako added. Dr. Amoako also defended the re-coalition of seven disputed constituencies, which had been the subject of contention following a High Court ruling. She argued that the re-coalition process was necessary, claiming that some polling agents had been pressured to declare results in favor of the NDC. The seven constituencies—Ahafo Ano North, Techiman South, Ahafo Ano South West, Nsawam Adoagyiri, Obuasi East, Okaikwei Central, and Tema Central—were all declared for the NPP after the re-collation. Following this process, the NDC’s General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, condemned the re-collation, describing it as unlawful and manipulated, and announced that the NDC rejected the results. Dr. Amoako’s comments reflect a deepening divide between the NPP and NDC over the credibility of the Electoral Commission’s actions, especially concerning the re-collation of results and the allegations surrounding it.

The Prime Minister said the season was a time to remember the importance of “being there for one another”, including in “the more difficult times”. He also expressed hope for “peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story” amid spiralling conflict across the region. The message comes after a challenging first five months in office for the Labour Government and against the backdrop of a flatlining economy and rising inflation. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, people will be travelling up and down the country. Heading home, visiting relatives and loved ones to celebrate together the hope and joy of this special season. “It’s a time to remind ourselves what’s really important. Family. Friendship. And fellowship between all people. “Being there for one another – in these celebrations, as well as the more difficult times.” The Prime Minister sought to strike an optimistic note following another year of political upheaval for Britain, which saw Labour win a landslide victory after a surprise election called by Rishi Sunak in the summer. After taking office in July, the new Government made a series of unpopular decisions as ministers confronted the realities of creaking public services and strained national finances. As well as dealing with the economic inheritance, Sir Keir said he needed to fix a “broken society” which manifested itself in summer riots across the country after the Southport knife attack. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, I will be hoping for peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story. “I’ll be looking towards a better, brighter future for every person and celebrating the joy and wonder that Christmas brings. “So, from my family to yours, I hope you have a very merry Christmas.” The message comes after revised official figures released on Monday indicated that UK gross domestic product (GDP) showed no growth between July and September. Downing Street defended the Government’s record so far when asked about the data, telling reporters: “We had to take those tough decisions to lay the foundations of growth such that we can then deliver the higher living standards over this Parliament that people want to see.” The Prime Minister also used his message to thank those spending Christmas serving others, including in the NHS and emergency services, the armed forces, churches and charities. “I know that this is not an easy time for everyone, and my thoughts are with all those who are lonely this Christmas. “Having a tough time, missing a loved one. You are not alone,” he said. Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch said Christmas was a time to reflect on “all that’s happened in the year” and “support all of those people who need our assistance”. “I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone, not just in the Conservative Party or in my constituency, but across the country,” the Tory leader said. “For all that you have been doing in your communities, supporting each other and helping to keep all our towns, villages and places going. “I think that Christmas is a time for us to reflect on all that’s happened in the year. “Sometimes we have amazing years. “Sometimes, like when I lost my dad, we have difficult years and we’re commiserating, but we do it together. “But it’s a time for us to support all of those people who need our assistance, who need our help, who need our support.” She added: “And I’m looking forward to 2025. “I wish you all the very best for the New Year and all of the exciting things to come.” Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: “This year, I’ve had the chance to spend time with some amazing young carers. “Incredible young people who will spend this Christmas doing what they do all year round; looking after loved ones who are ill or disabled. “Carers embody the Christmas spirit of love, selflessness and generosity. “So I hope we can all take some time to think of them, and keep them in our hearts. “And wish them – and everyone – a Christmas full of peace, joy and love.”WASHINGTON — The House shut down Democrats' efforts Thursday to release the long-awaited ethics report into former Rep. Matt Gaetz, pushing the fate of any resolution to the yearslong investigation of sexual misconduct allegations into further uncertainty. Matt Gaetz talks before President-elect Donald Trump speaks during an America First Policy Institute gala at his Mar-a-Lago estate Nov. 14 in Palm Beach, Fla. The nearly party-line votes came after Democrats had been pressing for the findings to be published even though the Florida Republican left Congress and withdrew as President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general. Rep. Tom McClintock, R-Calif., was the sole Republican to support the effort. Most Republicans have argued that any congressional probe into Gaetz ended when he resigned from the House. Speaker Mike Johnson also requested that the committee not publish its report, saying it would be a terrible precedent to set. While ethics reports have previously been released after a member’s resignation, it is extremely rare. Shortly before the votes took place, Rep. Sean Casten, D-Ill., who introduced one of the bills to force the release, said that if Republicans reject the release, they will have “succeeded in sweeping credible allegations of sexual misconduct under the rug.” Gaetz has repeatedly denied the claims. Earlier Thursday, the Ethics panel met to discuss the Gaetz report but made no decision, saying in a short statement that the matter is still being discussed. It's unclear now whether the document will ever see the light of day as lawmakers have only a few weeks left before a new session of Congress begins. It's the culmination of weeks of pressure on the Ethics committee's five Republicans and five Democrats who mostly work in secret as they investigate allegations of misconduct against lawmakers. The status of the Gaetz investigation became an open question last month when he abruptly resigned from Congress after Trump's announcement that he wanted his ally in the Cabinet. It is standard practice for the committee to end investigations when members of Congress depart, but the circumstances surrounding Gaetz were unusual, given his potential role in the new administration. Rep. Michael Guest, R-Miss., the committee chairman, said Wednesday that there is no longer the same urgency to release the report given that Gaetz has left Congress and stepped aside as Trump's choice to head the Justice Department. “I’ve been steadfast about that. He’s no longer a member. He is no longer going to be confirmed by the Senate because he withdrew his nomination to be the attorney general,” Guest said. The Gaetz report has also caused tensions between lawmakers on the bipartisan committee. Pennsylvania Rep. Susan Wild, the top Democrat on the panel, publicly admonished Guest last month for mischaracterizing a previous meeting to the press. Gaetz has denied any wrongdoing and said last year that the Justice Department’s separate investigation against him into sex trafficking allegations involving underage girls ended without federal charges. His onetime political ally Joel Greenberg, a fellow Republican who served as the tax collector in Florida’s Seminole County, admitted as part of a plea deal with prosecutors in 2021 that he paid women and an underage girl to have sex with him and other men. The men were not identified in court documents when he pleaded guilty. Greenberg was sentenced in late 2022 to 11 years in prison. Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio for secretary of state, former Democratic House member Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Trump named Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat. Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement. The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea. Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda. Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic. She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race. Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day. In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation. “There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and then endorsed Trump . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign. The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction. He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. “This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle. McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Brooke Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency. The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. She previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social. Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration. The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. Doug Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial, which centered on U.S. assistance for Ukraine. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential nomination, but he was acquitted by the Senate. Collins has also served in the armed forces himself and is currently a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. "We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need," Trump said in a statement about nominating Collins to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps. Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has been tapped by Trump to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields. Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement. Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next. Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. “I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Kash Patel spent several years as a Justice Department prosecutor before catching the Trump administration’s attention as a staffer on Capitol Hill who helped investigate the Russia probe. Patel called for dramatically reducing the agency’s footprint, a perspective that sets him apart from earlier directors who sought additional resources for the bureau. Though the Justice Department in 2021 halted the practice of secretly seizing reporters’ phone records during leak investigations, Patel said he intends to aggressively hunt down government officials who leak information to reporters. Trump has chosen former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin to serve as his pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency . Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added. During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband. Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission. Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Trump said Atkins, the CEO of Patomak Partners and a former SEC commissioner, was a “proven leader for common sense regulations.” In the years since leaving the SEC, Atkins has made the case against too much market regulation. “He believes in the promise of robust, innovative capital markets that are responsive to the needs of Investors, & that provide capital to make our Economy the best in the World. He also recognizes that digital assets & other innovations are crucial to Making America Greater than Ever Before,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. The commission oversees U.S. securities markets and investments and is currently led by Gary Gensler, who has been leading the U.S. government’s crackdown on the crypto industry. Gensler, who was nominated by President Joe Biden, announced last month that he would be stepping down from his post on the day that Trump is inaugurated — Jan. 20, 2025. Atkins began his career as a lawyer and has a long history working in the financial markets sector, both in government and private practice. In the 1990s, he worked on the staffs of two former SEC chairmen, Richard C. Breeden and Arthur Levitt. Jared Isaacman, 41, is a tech billionaire who bought a series of spaceflights from Elon Musk’s SpaceX and conducted the first private spacewalk . He is the founder and CEO of a card-processing company and has collaborated closely with Musk ever since buying his first chartered SpaceX flight. He took contest winners on that 2021 trip and followed it in September with a mission where he briefly popped out the hatch to test SpaceX’s new spacewalking suits. Rep. Elise Stefanik is a representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment. Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. President-elect Donald Trump says he's chosen former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker to serve as U.S. ambassador to NATO. Trump has expressed skepticism about the Western military alliance for years. Trump said in a statement Wednesday that Whitaker is “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who “will ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended” and “strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability.” The choice of Whitaker as the nation’s representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an unusual one, given his background is as a lawyer and not in foreign policy. Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah. “He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud." Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Trump said Wednesday that he will nominate Gen. Keith Kellogg to serve as assistant to the president and special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as National Security Advisor to Trump's former Vice President Mike Pence. For the America First Policy Institute, one of several groups formed after Trump left office to help lay the groundwork for the next Republican administration, Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib) Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday. The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. “Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!” Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Stephen Miller, an immigration hardliner , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Thomas Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign. Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.” Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. Former Rep. Billy Long represented Missouri in the U.S. House from 2011 to 2023. Since leaving Congress, Trump said, Long “has worked as a Business and Tax advisor, helping Small Businesses navigate the complexities of complying with the IRS Rules and Regulations.” Former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler was appointed in January 2020 by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and then lost a runoff election a year later. She started a conservative voter registration organization and dived into GOP fundraising, becoming one of the top individual donors and bundlers to Trump’s 2024 comeback campaign. Even before nominating her for agriculture secretary, the president-elect already had tapped Loeffler as co-chair of his inaugural committee. Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency. The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate. Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency. After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Dan Scavino, deputy chief of staff Scavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. James Blair, deputy chief of staff Blair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago. Taylor Budowich, deputy chief of staff Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency. Jay Bhattacharya, National Institutes of Health Trump has chosen Dr. Jay Bhattacharya to lead the National Institutes of Health. Bhattacharya is a physician and professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, and is a critic of pandemic lockdowns and vaccine mandates. He promoted the idea of herd immunity during the pandemic, arguing that people at low risk should live normally while building up immunity to COVID-19 through infection. The National Institutes of Health funds medical research through competitive grants to researchers at institutions throughout the nation. NIH also conducts its own research with thousands of scientists working at its labs in Bethesda, Maryland. Dr. Marty Makary, Food and Drug Administration Makary is a Johns Hopkins surgeon and author who argued against pandemic lockdowns. He routinely appeared on Fox News during the COVID-19 pandemic and wrote opinion articles questioning masks for children. He cast doubt on vaccine mandates but supported vaccines generally. Makary also cast doubt on whether booster shots worked, which was against federal recommendations on the vaccine. Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, Surgeon General Nesheiwat is a general practitioner who serves as medical director for CityMD, a network of urgent care centers in New York and New Jersey. She has been a contributor to Fox News. Dr. Dave Weldon, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Weldon is a former Florida congressman who recently ran for a Florida state legislative seat and lost; Trump backed Weldon’s opponent. In Congress, Weldon weighed in on one of the nation’s most heated debates of the 1990s over quality of life and a right-to-die and whether Terri Schiavo, who was in a persistent vegetative state after cardiac arrest, should have been allowed to have her feeding tube removed. He sided with the parents who did not want it removed. Jamieson Greer, U.S. trade representative Kevin Hassett, Director of the White House National Economic Council Trump is turning to two officials with experience navigating not only Washington but the key issues of income taxes and tariffs as he fills out his economic team. He announced he has chosen international trade attorney Jamieson Greer to be his U.S. trade representative and Kevin Hassett as director of the White House National Economic Council. While Trump has in several cases nominated outsiders to key posts, these picks reflect a recognition that his reputation will likely hinge on restoring the public’s confidence in the economy. Trump said in a statement that Greer was instrumental in his first term in imposing tariffs on China and others and replacing the trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, “therefore making it much better for American Workers.” Hassett, 62, served in the first Trump term as chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers. He has a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania and worked at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute before joining the Trump White House in 2017. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.

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Apple is warning billions of Mac and MacBook users worldwide to update macOS as a matter of priority. The latest version of macOS Sequoia was released earlier this week as macOS 15.1.1. It comes less than a month after the major 15.1 release that addressed several small bugs and security fixes alongside the first wave of generative AI software in the Apple Intelligence suite. What Issues Face Apple’s Mac And MacBook Pro Laptops? Release notes for macOS Sequoia 15.1.1 list two issues addressed. The first is a fix to the JavaScriptCore (concerning “maliciously crafted web content”), the second fixes an issue with WebKit (concerning “Processing maliciously crafted web content may lead to a cross site scripting attack”). These are recorded as CVE-2024-44308 and CVE-2024-44309. Forbes contributor Kate O’Flahery has delved into the technical issues of these attacks . The importance of applying this update has been reinforced thanks to an intervention by the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency " "Apple released security updates to address vulnerabilities in multiple Apple products. A cyber threat actor could exploit some of these vulnerabilities to take control of an affected system. CISA encourages users and administrators to review the following advisories and apply necessary updates:" Update More Than Your Apple MacBook Pro The macOS update was launched simultaneously with iOS (18.1.1) and iPadOS (18.1.1) updates . Forbes’ contributor David Phelan has taken a closer look at the iPhone update —as well as the update to iOS 18 for the current range, Apple is providing an update to iOS 17 to ensure the fixes are available for the broadest range of iPhones as possible. macOS Sequoia supports every Mac and MacBook that runs on Apple Silicon. In addition to any Mac with these M-series chipsets, macOS Sequoia also supports several Intel-powered Macs—namely those with the Xeon W and Coffee Lake or later chipset. Effectively that means the iMac Pros released since 2017, iMacs released since 2019, MacBook Pros since 2018, Mac Minis since 2018, and Mac Pros since 2019 are also supported and should be upgraded as soon as possible. How To Update Your Apple Mac And MacBook Pro To start a manual update to macOS 15.1.1, go to the System Settings / General / Software Update and click Update Now. This is in a different location on older Mac hardware,, go to System Preferences and click Software Update. Now read the latest MacBook, iPhone, and App Store headlines in Forbes’ weekly Apple Loop news digest...

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