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The article argues that Republican leadership, particularly under Donald Trump, is deliberately dismantling the Affordable Care Act by allowing federal subsidies to expire at year's end. The author contends this represents Trump's continued effort to erase Barack Obama's presidential legacy, tracing the motivation back to racist "birther" conspiracy theories and opposition to "Obamacare." Without the $35 billion in annual enhanced subsidies that cap premiums at 8.5% of income, approximately 22 million Americans face potential loss of affordable health coverage or dramatic premium increases of thousands of dollars monthly. Republicans reportedly have no replacement plan ready and are proposing alternatives like health savings accounts that the author argues would primarily benefit wealthier Americans while leaving working-class families without adequate coverage. # Key Takeaways

The United States has officially classified Venezuela's Cartel de los Suns as a foreign terrorist organization, claiming it is led by President Nicolás Maduro and senior government officials involved in large-scale drug trafficking operations. The designation grants American law enforcement expanded authority to target the alleged network, which experts describe not as a traditional cartel but rather as a widespread corruption system within Venezuela's military and government institutions that facilitates cocaine smuggling. While the Venezuelan government categorically denies the cartel's existence and calls the designation a fabrication to justify intervention, several former high-ranking Venezuelan officials—including military leaders and intelligence chiefs—have defected and provided testimony to US authorities confirming the organization's drug-trafficking activities. The term originated in the 1990s, referencing the sun insignia worn by Venezuelan generals, and the alleged network reportedly strengthened after President Hugo Chávez severed military cooperation with the US and maintained sympathetic relations with Colombian drug-trafficking guerrilla groups. # Key Takeaways

The Trump administration's One Big Beautiful Bill Act has reclassified nursing, removing its professional degree status and severely limiting federal student loan amounts for nursing students to $20,500 annually with a $100,000 total cap, compared to $50,000 yearly and $200,000 total for protected fields. This change particularly threatens Washington D.C.'s healthcare system, where Black women comprise 86% of licensed practical nurses and the existing nursing workforce is aging, with over 60% of the city's 966 licensed practical nurses aged 50 or older. The reduced borrowing limits fall far short of actual tuition costs for advanced nursing programs in D.C., which exceed these caps by tens of thousands of dollars, threatening to block nurses from advancing into higher-paying leadership and primary care positions. Healthcare leaders warn this policy will decrease nursing program enrollment, reduce the quality and quantity of nurses entering the workforce, and worsen health disparities in underserved communities that depend on advanced practice nurses for essential care.

Imam Jamil Abdullah Al-Amin, the civil rights activist formerly known as H. Rap Brown, died at age 82 in a North Carolina federal medical facility while serving time for a 2000 shooting he consistently denied committing. Rising from street activist in Baton Rouge to chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee at 23, he became a prominent Black Power movement figure whose fiery rhetoric prompted Congress to pass the "H. Rap Brown Law" targeting anti-riot activities. After serving time at Attica in the 1970s, he converted to Islam, changed his name, and became a respected spiritual leader in Atlanta's West End, running a mosque and community programs. Despite another inmate's repeated confessions to the 2000 shooting of two deputies, Al-Amin remained imprisoned until his recent death, with supporters campaigning for his release as he suffered from a facial growth requiring medical attention. # Key Takeaways

A new report from Pure Desire Ministries reveals that pornography use is widespread among faith communities, with 61% of U.S. adults viewing pornography and 75% of surveyed Christians admitting to using it, including 67% of pastors. Ashley Jameson, who works with Pure Desire Ministries, trains church leaders on addressing this addiction and emphasizes that brain imaging shows pornography affects the brain similarly to heroin, causing physical damage that can be reversed through treatment and neuroplasticity. The issue remains largely hidden because people fear judgment and removal from leadership positions, with half of users keeping their behavior secret and most lacking support systems. Jameson, who discovered her own husband's pornography addiction and has personal experience with trauma-related addiction, travels internationally to help faith communities address this problem through honest conversation and structured recovery programs.

President Trump criticized Ukraine's leadership on social media for lacking gratitude toward American peace efforts while negotiations continue in Geneva over a controversial US-brokered proposal to end the Russia-Ukraine war. The leaked 28-point plan heavily favors Moscow, requiring Ukraine to withdraw from parts of Donetsk, accept Russian control of several regions, limit its military size, and abandon NATO membership aspirations in exchange for unspecified security guarantees. While Putin has indicated the proposal could form a basis for settlement, Ukraine's European allies have expressed concerns about territorial concessions and military restrictions, with reports suggesting they plan to propose modifications. Trump initially set a deadline of November 27 for Ukraine's acceptance but later softened his stance after international pushback.

Tatiana Schlossberg, a 35-year-old climate journalist and granddaughter of President John F. Kennedy, has publicly revealed her terminal diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia, which was discovered after she gave birth in May 2024. Despite undergoing intensive treatments including bone marrow transplants and chemotherapy, physicians have informed her that she likely has less than a year to live. In a deeply personal essay published in The New Yorker, she expressed her anguish over leaving behind her two young children and adding another tragedy to her family's history of loss. She also voiced criticism of her cousin Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s confirmation as US health secretary, expressing concern about the healthcare system while relying on it for her own survival.

Samara Southern Creations, a Southern cuisine restaurant led by Chef Sarah Earring, has recently relocated to Calabash in downtown Oakland, where it operates as a popular Sunday brunch destination. The establishment specializes in Southern, Cajun, and Creole dishes, with the author JR Valrey recommending it as serving some of the Bay Area's best food. Chef Earring officially launched her business in 2017 after years of cooking for friends and family who encouraged her entrepreneurial venture. The restaurant previously operated out of Haus of Chefs for a year before moving to its current location, representing what Earring describes as "Chapter 2" in her journey toward owning a brick-and-mortar establishment. # Key Takeaways

Marjorie Taylor Greene, who entered Congress in 2021 as one of Donald Trump's most loyal supporters, resigned after a dramatic falling out with the former president who labeled her a "traitor." Her break with Trump intensified over several months, beginning with disputes over the Jeffrey Epstein files and escalating through disagreements on foreign policy priorities, government shutdown strategy, and healthcare subsidies. Greene, who built her political identity on challenging the establishment, found herself at odds with a MAGA movement that had itself become the establishment. Her resignation, effective January 5th, leaves her political future uncertain but potentially open to new opportunities in Georgia politics, where success without Trump's backing has proven possible.

Ukraine's European allies, Canada, and Japan have expressed reservations about a US-drafted peace plan to end the Russia-Ukraine war, particularly regarding proposed territorial concessions and military limitations on Ukraine. The 28-point plan, which President Trump has given Ukraine until November 27 to accept, would grant Russia de facto control over several Ukrainian regions and limit Ukraine's military to 600,000 personnel while offering unspecified security guarantees. Ukrainian President Zelensky acknowledged the country faces an extremely difficult moment as it weighs pressure to accept terms viewed as favorable to Moscow. Security officials from major powers are scheduled to meet in Geneva to discuss the proposal further, while Trump has indicated the current draft is not his final offer. # Key Takeaways

Marjorie Taylor Greene, a prominent Republican congresswoman from Georgia and former Trump ally, announced her resignation from Congress effective January 5, 2026, following a bitter public dispute with President Trump. The conflict arose after Greene persistently demanded the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related documents and criticized Trump's policies on tariffs and cost of living, prompting Trump to label her a "traitor" and threaten to support a primary challenger against her. In response to mounting pressure, Trump eventually reversed his position and signed legislation requiring the Justice Department to release the Epstein documents within 30 days. Greene stated she refused to be a "battered wife" in the situation and wanted to spare her district a divisive primary battle, though speculation suggests she may pursue state-level office in Georgia despite Trump's previous discouragement.

President Donald Trump and New York City's newly elected Democratic socialist mayor Zohran Mamdani held an unexpectedly friendly meeting at the White House, despite previously exchanging harsh rhetoric including accusations of despotism and communism. The two leaders emphasized their common ground on addressing New York's affordability and housing crisis, with Trump repeatedly praising Mamdani and expressing confidence in his potential success as mayor. Both men deflected questions about their past political attacks and maintained a conciliatory tone throughout the press conference, bonding over their shared Queens roots and love for New York City. The cordial meeting may complicate Republican strategies to portray Mamdani as an extremist in upcoming 2026 midterm elections, as Trump even dismissed a GOP congresswoman's characterization of Mamdani as a "jihadist." # Key Takeaways

The Trump administration has dramatically shifted US asylum policy toward Iranian nationals, conducting unprecedented deportation flights to Iran despite the absence of diplomatic relations and Iran's poor human rights record. Several Iranian Christian converts who fled religious persecution report being deported even after some received asylum protection, with sensitive information about their conversions remaining in files that Iranian authorities can access upon their return. The deportations have separated families and placed returnees at serious risk, as converts face increased arrests and interrogation by Iranian intelligence, which frames Christianity as a national security threat linked to Israel. While White House officials claim all deportees had their asylum claims fully adjudicated, lawyers and affected individuals describe significant inconsistencies in how cases are handled, with family members receiving opposite outcomes despite similar circumstances. Those deported now face surveillance and summons from Iranian authorities, while their relatives remaining in the US live in legal limbo, unable to work and fearing both separation and potential persecution.

The author describes how the federal government is cutting SNAP benefits and other food assistance programs that already provided inadequate support under what she calls a "scarcity model." She argues these programs, dating back to the New Deal era, were designed to give poor people the minimum necessary to survive rather than what they need to thrive, while historically excluding people of color, unmarried women, and other marginalized groups. In response to government failures that existed long before and worsened during COVID-19, POOR Magazine established Homefulness, a community-led initiative on purchased land that provides free food, diapers, and other essentials. This grassroots organization now serves over 500 people weekly through their sliding scale cafe, redistributing donations from wealthier supporters to low-income families in need. # Key Takeaways

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia Republican known for her staunch support of Donald Trump's MAGA movement, announced her resignation from Congress effective January 5, 2026. Her departure follows a significant rift with Trump after she joined efforts to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein, prompting the president to publicly attack her with derogatory nicknames. Greene cited concerns about facing a Trump-backed primary challenge and compared remaining in her position to being a "battered wife," stating she has too much self-respect to endure such treatment. She also criticized both political parties for failing to address healthcare affordability during the recent government shutdown and expressed regret about her role in toxic political discourse, particularly following the assassination of conservative leader Charlie Kirk. # Key Takeaways

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a grave warning that Ukraine faces an extremely difficult decision between maintaining its sovereignty and potentially losing crucial American military support. A leaked US peace proposal contains terms heavily favoring Russia, including Ukraine surrendering control of eastern territories, drastically reducing its military forces to 600,000 troops, and abandoning NATO membership aspirations. Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated the plan could serve as a foundation for negotiations while remaining prepared to continue military operations, and President Trump has pressured Zelensky to accept the proposal by late November. The plan has generated significant controversy as it would essentially reward Russian aggression by legitimizing territorial conquest and reintegrating Russia into the global economy through lifted sanctions. # Key Takeaways

The Motor City Cruise, Detroit Pistons' G League affiliate, has signed Detroit native Ray Williams to their roster. The 6-foot-4 guard earned this opportunity after impressing coaches during a fall open tryout and training camp, though he initially didn't make the opening roster. Williams, who played five seasons at Wayne State University where the Cruise plays home games, was a two-time GLIAC All-Defensive Team member and helped lead the Warriors to their first NCAA Division II Tournament appearance in nearly ten years. His signing fills a roster spot created by center Charles Bediako's temporary departure for Team Canada national team duties during the FIBA World Cup qualifying window. # Key Takeaways

Congressional Republicans are advancing multiple bills that would significantly reduce the autonomy of Washington D.C.'s local government and its elected officials. The proposed legislation would eliminate police accountability reforms, reinstate cash bail systems, and transfer various governing powers from D.C.'s mayor and council to federal lawmakers and the president. More than 700,000 D.C. residents, who lack full congressional representation, would see their locally-elected officials stripped of authority over critical policy areas including law enforcement, judicial appointments, and criminal justice procedures. District leaders, including Mayor Muriel Bowser and Attorney General Brian Schwalb, have united in strong opposition, calling the measures an assault on democratic principles and local self-governance.

The Washington D.C. metropolitan area is experiencing a severe child care affordability crisis, with full-time infant care costing an average of $2,140 monthly, nearly matching the cost of rent for a two-bedroom apartment. Families with two young children face even steeper expenses at $3,854 per month, which is 71% higher than average regional rent costs. The ongoing federal shutdown has intensified this crisis by cutting funding to 140 Head Start programs nationwide, forcing 20 programs to close and affecting thousands of families who now must turn to expensive private child care options. Contributing factors include a shortage of early childhood educators, high commercial space costs, elevated cost of living in the region, and increased demand as parents return to in-person work. # Key Takeaways

The D.C. Council held a November 18th legislative meeting where they confirmed Rachel Pierre as the new director of the Department of Human Services and approved various revenue bonds and resolutions. Just two days later, Pierre faced her first major crisis when the city's emergency rental assistance program (ERAP) experienced a catastrophic failure, with a malfunctioning hotline leaving hundreds of desperate residents unable to schedule appointments for help. The system was so overwhelmed that people waited in long lines outside the only application site, with many facing imminent eviction and expressing fear about housing their families. The department acknowledged they underestimated demand and are reviewing their performance, while ERAP scheduling has been paused, partly due to the program's significantly reduced budget of under $9 million compared to the previous $27 million.

The US has been conducting military strikes against alleged drug-trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific since September, killing 83 people across at least 21 strikes according to official statements. Among the casualties may be Alejandro Carranza, a Colombian fisherman whose family says he departed Venezuela before the first strike was announced, though they lack confirmation of his death. The Trump administration claims these operations constitute self-defense against narco-terrorists threatening American lives, invoking wartime powers by declaring a "non-international armed conflict" with drug cartels. However, the strikes have drawn international condemnation for potentially violating international law prohibiting extrajudicial killings of civilians, with Colombian President Petro suspending intelligence sharing and critics questioning whether military force rather than arrests and trials is appropriate. Local fishermen now fear being mistakenly targeted while conducting legitimate work in waters where the strikes continue.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival announced its 2026 programming plans at a November 20th event in Northwest D.C., revealing Detroit artist Tim Yanke's "America in Bloom" as the official festival artwork. The festival, scheduled for March 20 through April 12, 2026, will introduce several new initiatives including the Blossom Block program partnering with local Business Improvement Districts and relocating the Opening Ceremony to DAR Constitution Hall for expanded access. Key events will include a redesigned Petalpalooza with a new Cherry Blast component, a Blossom Kite Festival celebrating America's 250th birthday, and a Pink Tie Party themed "Art of Fashion." The festival parade on April 11 will feature performers including David Archuleta, Gabby Samone, and Club Nouveau, with additional acts to be announced. # Key Takeaways

The Conservation Fund has announced the protection of the historic Ben Moore Hotel in Montgomery, Alabama, a significant landmark in African American history and the civil rights movement. Originally built by Matthew F. Moore, the four-story hotel featured modern amenities including guest rooms, dining facilities, and entertainment spaces, serving as both a Green Book refuge for Black travelers and a gathering place for civil rights leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and entertainment legends such as B.B. King and Little Richard. Though the hotel eventually declined and closed, it has been recognized as an important historical site by local heritage organizations. The Conservation Fund is partnering with the Landmarks Foundation to preserve the property, which officials view as both a celebration of Montgomery's history and an opportunity for neighborhood revitalization and economic development. # Key Takeaways

Fifth grader Lyric Weathers from Schulze Academy for Technology & Arts won The Skillman Foundation's 34th Float Design Contest with her submission "Cultures are Around the World," which will appear as an actual float in Detroit's 99th America's Thanksgiving Parade on November 27. The competition invited students in grades 4-8 from Detroit public and charter schools to create designs based on the theme "My Dream for the World," with Lyric's vision of cultural unity selected from hundreds of entries. Five additional students received Honorable Mention awards, and their designs will be featured on the skirt of Lyric's float. The partnership between The Skillman Foundation and the Parade Company aims to provide Detroit youth with a platform for artistic expression while contributing to the city's beloved holiday tradition, which will be broadcast to millions of viewers nationwide. # Key Takeaways

During the current government shutdown, essential infrastructure needs and services continue despite federal funding delays and workforce furloughs. The author argues that skilled trades workers—including electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians—represent a stable employment sector that operates independently of political disruptions in Washington. With an aging workforce retiring and societal emphasis on four-year degrees rather than vocational training, the U.S. faces a chronic shortage of skilled tradespeople that predates the shutdown. The current crisis highlights both the immediate need for these workers and the opportunity to invest in future-proof credentials and apprenticeship programs that provide economic stability for communities. # Key Takeaways

The March of Dimes' 2025 Report Card reveals that the United States continues to struggle with a 10.4 percent national preterm birth rate, with stark disparities affecting Black mothers at 14.7 percent—the highest rate among all demographic groups. Many communities across the country have become "maternity care deserts" with no obstetric providers or birthing facilities, forcing families to travel hours for basic prenatal care or miss appointments entirely. Contributing factors include unmanaged chronic health conditions, lack of insurance coverage (particularly after childbirth), and systemic dismissal of concerns raised by Black and Native mothers during medical appointments. The situation is most severe in Southern states like Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana, though urban areas including Memphis, Detroit, and Washington, D.C. also face significant challenges with preterm births and racial disparities in maternal health outcomes. # Key Takeaways

Three siblings who were once close to Michael Jackson—Frank Cascio, Aldo Cascio, and Marie-Nicole Porte—are now claiming the pop star's Estate coerced them into signing a secretive settlement agreement in 2019 that was designed to prevent them from speaking out. The siblings allege they were pressured to sign the document without legal representation or adequate time to review it, with tactics that exploited their emotional connections to Jackson's children. The Michael Jackson Estate vehemently denies these allegations, characterizing the siblings' current $213 million claim as extortion and pointing out that the Cascios previously defended Jackson publicly for years. This legal battle centers on questions of power dynamics, alleged manipulation, and whether the 2019 settlement was legitimate or exploitative, adding another controversial chapter to Michael Jackson's complicated legacy.

A Missouri circuit judge, Matthew EP Thornhill, resigned after facing disciplinary action for inappropriate courtroom behavior centered around his obsession with Elvis Presley. The judge regularly wore an Elvis wig and sunglasses on the bench during Halloween, played the singer's music during witness swearing-in ceremonies, and made frequent references to Elvis throughout legal proceedings. A judicial misconduct commission also cited him for discussing his political views and campaigning from the bench, ultimately recommending a six-month unpaid suspension followed by supervised service. Rather than face the suspension, Thornhill acknowledged his mistakes and agreed to retire after two decades as St Charles County's longest-serving circuit judge.

The article examines how Generation Z has become a crucial ideological battleground as they prepare to become America's largest living generation, following millennials who surpassed baby boomers in 2016. Conservative and extremist organizations like the Proud Boys and Turning Point USA are actively recruiting Gen Z members through billboards, campus chapters, and social media, using appealing language about faith and freedom to mask white supremacist ideologies. The author notes that while Gen Z demonstrates strong social activism on issues like climate change and racial justice, right-wing groups have built sophisticated grassroots infrastructure targeting young people. The article argues that communities of color need to develop comparable organized networks focused on youth to counter these recruitment efforts and protect inclusive values for future generations.