Several news items dominated headlines recently. Bill Maher repeatedly criticized Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, asserting they fail to address genuine racial issues and that Democrats prioritize them over more effective solutions. He suggested focusing instead on practical approaches to improve the lives of marginalized communities. This viewpoint was echoed in a report showing declining popularity of DEI programs, even prompting some corporations like Walmart to abandon their DEI initiatives. Conversely, a new university model emphasizing Merit, Excellence, and Intelligence (MEI) garnered attention as an alternative approach.
Legal news included the conviction of a former DC police officer for contact with Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio before January 6th. In a separate case, a gay activist couple received 100-year sentences for the horrific rape and abuse of their adopted sons.
Political news featured the upcoming planned withdrawal of the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO) on Inauguration Day. Scott Jennings’s forceful rebuttal of CNN’s focus on “old news” regarding Matt Gaetz also gained attention. Other political developments included the surprising discovery of a “missing” GOP congresswoman living in a dementia care home, and commentary from public figures like Maye Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy, and Rand Paul on various political and economic issues, including Elon Musk’s proposals involving Dogecoin and government oversight.
The health sector saw headlines dominated by studies questioning the COVID-19 vaccines’ safety and efficacy, with some suggesting they exceed criteria for market withdrawal. Further, a new study supported the use of Hydroxychloroquine. Concerns about the bird flu’s potential impact on pregnant women and babies were addressed by fact-checking articles. Additionally, Yale research delivered concerning news for those who received COVID-19 vaccines.
Finally, other notable stories included alarming reports of a large explosion causing massive fireballs over the U.S., Michael Cohen’s unexpected support for Trump’s claims about media lies, the Biden administration’s first-ever “climate arrest,” and Representative Thomas Massie’s explosive allegations against the US government regarding Syria. A disturbing video depicting a man setting a woman on fire in a NYC subway also garnered significant media coverage.