If President-elect Donald Trump taps Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) to be his next secretary of defense over current nominee Pete Hegseth , it will upend the 2026 governor race in the Sunshine State. Hegseth's nomination remains in jeopardy as Republican senators voice growing concerns about his past conduct with women and alcohol, which has Trump reportedly considering DeSantis as his backup replacement. TRUMP CABINET PICKS: WHO'S BEEN TAPPED TO SERVE IN THE PRESIDENT-ELECT'S ADMINISTRATION Hegseth claims he's not withdrawing his name from consideration despite reports that meetings with lawmakers are Thursday have been rescheduled. "I spoke to the president-elect this morning. He said keep going keep fighting. I’m behind you all the way," Hegseth told CBS News Wednesday morning. Still, if DeSantis moves up to lead the Defense Department, there would be the political equivalent of musical chairs. "It would cause a seismic shift and the political gamesmanship about who wants to pursue which seat in 2026," said Ford O'Connell, a Florida Republican strategist. Lt. Gov. Jeanette Núñez (R-FL) would succeed DeSantis as the chief executive of Florida, according to state law. Núñez would almost certainly have the advantage in the 2026 race as the incumbent governor and would make history as the state's first female governor. But she will likely face stiff competition if former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz decides to run for governor after his attorney general bid flamed out last month, or if Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) decides to throw his hat in the race. (DeSantis is term-limited and could no longer run for governor in 2026.) O'Connell, however, pushed back on Núñez becoming the de facto winner in 2026 if she succeeds DeSantis. "I don't think it's going to help her be a front-runner because the bench is so deep in Florida. If someone like Byron Donalds were to get in that race, he'd automatically become the front runner," he said. A source familiar with Florida's Republican scene told the Washington Examiner, "Some people are saying that Rick Scott might want to go back and be governor of Florida." Scott's office did not respond to a request for comment. But if he ran, it would complicate a race that could already feature Nuñez, Gaetz, and Byron Donalds. However, the source claimed that if Gaetz and Donalds were to come to an agreement where "one chose to run for governor, the other chose to run for senator, they both could win" given Trump's support for both candidates. DeSantis was already weighing options to fill Sen. Marco Rubio's (R-FL) seat after Trump tapped the senator as his Secretary of State nominee. The Florida governor could likely tap Lara Trump, the president-elect's daughter-in-law and co-chair of the Republican National Committee, to replace Rubio. "If I am appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis and he feels that I’m the right fit to take over the U.S. Senate seat for Marco Rubio, those are big shoes to fill, but I would take it very seriously,” said Lara Trump at The Washington Post’s 2024 Global Women’s Summit in November. There was some speculation DeSantis would appoint a placeholder to Rubio's seat, such as his chief of staff James Uthmeier, and would then run for the Senate in 2026. But if he were Defense Secretary that position would place him in a prime position for a presidential run in 2028, although he would likely be challenging Vice President-elect J.D. Vance. Dennis Lennox, a Republican strategist, expressed skepticism over DeSantis's willingness to return to Washington after serving as a congressman from 2013 to 2018. WHAT TRUMP HAS PROMISED TO DO ON DAY 1 IN THE OVAL OFFICE "While the Pentagon is a plum gig, it’s hard to see how he could parlay that for something down the road. I suppose leaving the governorship early is the one way he can best position his lieutenant governor and heir presumptive, Jeanette Nuñez, against a Matt Gaetz or Byron Donalds," Lennox said. "But if that’s his objective then camping out in Marco Rubio’s Senate seat makes more sense. Going to the upper chamber would keep DeSantis on the scene until 2032, if J.D. Vance doesn’t keep the White House in 2028," he added. Floridian voters will also decide on April 1, 2025, who will fill Gaetz's seat after his resignation from Congress. Trump endorsed Jimmy Patronis, the state's chief financial officer, to replace Gaetz in the 1st Congressional District in a Truth Social post. “As your next Congressman, Jimmy would work tirelessly alongside of me to grow our economy, secure our border, stop migrant crime, strengthen our incredible military/vets, restore American energy DOMINANCE, and defend our always under siege Second Amendment,” Trump said. “Should he decide to enter this Race, Jimmy Patronis has my Complete and Total Endorsement. RUN, JIMMY, RUN!” he continued. Patronis sent in his letter of resignation last month to run for the seat, which has a primary on Jan. 28, 2025, with April 1, 2025, as the scheduled date for the special election. His last day is March 31, 2025. Floridians will also decide on who will replace Rep. Mike Waltz, who is leaving Congress to become Trump's national security advisor. State Sen. Randy Fine received Trump's backing for the 6th Congressional District and launched his bid last week. Trump "needs fighters who will Make America Wealthy Again, Make American Safe Again, and someone who will stand up for Israel," he wrote on X . "That is why today I’m announcing my candidacy for FL 6th Congressional District."[WT논평] Containment policy aginst China (1)
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has revealed that Raheem Sterling should return from injury quicker than expected, but Bukayo Saka has undergone surgery on his hamstring problem. The Gunners had already been warned to cope without Saka for the long-term after the 23-year-old tore a muscle in last weekend's 5-1 thumping of Crystal Palace in the Premier League. Mikel Arteta admitted in his press conference earlier this week that Saka would be sidelined for "many weeks" with the issue, while reports suggested he could be missing until March. Despite the initial expectation that the England winger would not have to go under the knife, Arteta revealed on Friday evening that he had undergone an operation and should not be back until late February at the earliest. "He had a procedure, everything went well, but unfortunately he'll be out for many many weeks," Arteta said after the Gunners' 1-0 win over Ipswich Town . "I think it will be more than two months, it will depend on how the scar tissue starts to heal. Very difficult to say." Before the trip to Selhurst Park last weekend, Arsenal had already lost Chelsea loanee Sterling to a knee injury of unspecified severity, further diminishing their attacking resources at a crucial time. With all of Kai Havertz , Gabriel Jesus , Martin Odegaard , Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli starting on Friday night, Ethan Nwaneri was the only attack-minded player on the Arsenal bench against the Tractor Boys. The Gunners' offensive shortages have led to pleas from fans to reinforce the squad in the January transfer window, but when asked by Amazon Prime about his side's plans for next month, Arteta was typically tight-lipped and also delivered good news on Sterling. "We will see. Hopefully we won't have anymore injuries," Arteta replied. "Raheem [Sterling] will have less time out than expected so that's good news. We'll focus on the players we already have – they are very good." Trossard and Havertz combined for the game's only goal on Friday evening, as the German got on the end of the Belgian's cross to take Arsenal back into second in the Premier League table above London rivals Chelsea. The contest initially had an Arsenal vs. Everton feel to it, as Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna switched to a 5-4-1 setup in the hope of nullifying the Gunners' attackers, just as Sean Dyche 's team did at the Emirates two weeks ago. That plan was in tatters when Havertz clinically dispatched the opening goal with a quarter of the game gone, but Arsenal squandered a couple of chances to add to their lead in the second half and also had to weather a brief Ipswich storm. However, Arteta affirmed that he could never be 'frustrated' with all three points, but he accepted that there were some improvements that could have been made to extinguish Ipswich's flicker of hope. "Frustration when you win? No. Things to improve? Yes," the Spaniard added. "We gave some silly balls away so they could generate some momentum and win set pieces without really creating nothing. The game was going in our direction as we had two big chances in the second half." Arsenal remain six points behind league leaders Liverpool having played a game more than the Reds, and the Gunners are back in action away to London rivals Brentford on New Year's Day.Trump says he can't guarantee tariffs won't raise US prices and won't rule out revenge prosecutions
Shane Bieber says bonds led to re-signing with Guardians after he missed '24 following elbow surgery
ONE Gas Issues 2025 Financial GuidanceThe international community has called for restraint and dialogue to avoid further escalation and prevent a wider conflict in the region. The United Nations and other organizations have urged both Russia and Ukraine to respect international law and work towards a peaceful resolution of their differences. The exchange of hostilities underscores the urgent need for a diplomatic solution to the conflict and a renewed commitment to dialogue and negotiation.
In a society where acts of kindness are often overshadowed by acts of cruelty and selfishness, Zhang's story serves as a beacon of hope. It reminds us that compassion and empathy have the power to bridge divides and heal wounds, even in the most unlikely of circumstances. Zhang's humble actions demonstrate that a simple gesture of kindness can have a profound impact on someone's life.In a surprising turn of events, the League of Legends community was abuzz with excitement as the 2021 World Championship group draw placed Invictus Gaming (iG) and Top Esports (TES) in the same group. This matchup not only marks a fierce competition between two powerhouse teams, but also brings together old teammates who once fought side by side.By Kimberly Jones / Beacon Media The devastation brought by Hurricane Helene to western North Carolina has left communities grappling with significant loss and upheaval. As we witness the aftermath, one thing is clear: the path to recovery will require time, commitment, and considerable resources. And while there are so many areas that will need help, how our people recover will most assuredly pass directly through North Carolina’s public schools. Schools have not just been places of learning but have become community lifelines, offering everything from emergency shelters to emotional support for students and families. In Waynesville, Heather Smith, our 2024 North Carolina Teacher of the Year, is a testament to this resilience. Despite facing unprecedented challenges, she and her community have shown unwavering dedication to their students. The Watauga High School community have been sharing stories about how staff and teachers worked tirelessly to account for all 1,647 of their students — even as many of them struggled without basic utilities themselves. Noticias recientes de política e inmigración directamente en tu correo! Newsletter Política e Inmigración This story of commitment is a powerful reminder of what our schools and educators do, day in and day out, to support their communities. North Carolina's public schools have always been more than just places of education; they are dynamic centers of dedication and community spirit, fostering a sense of culture, pride, and unity. Our schools unite students, families, and community members from all walks of life, all in the shared mission of providing one of society's most essential resources — education. Open to all, without tuition or discrimination, our public schools welcome every young person. They offer an environment where students are not only taught but uplifted and inspired to explore their potential and grow both academically and personally. In times of need, whether it be emotional, social, or academic, our public schools serve as beacons of hope, offering shelter and guidance through life’s challenges. But dedication alone will not rebuild our schools. The Department of Public Instruction has requested legislative action to cut through red tape and deliver critical resources to affected areas. This effort, however, is only the beginning. Our students will return with immense social and emotional needs, compounded by the trauma of displacement and loss. Addressing these needs requires investment in mental health support and educational resources, from tutors to counselors. Our state's teachers are already organizing to support their peers in the West, drawing on experiences from past challenges like Hurricane Florence and the disruptions of COVID-19. By partnering teachers in the West with those in the East who have faced similar challenges, we aim to create a support network that will help communities rebuild and students thrive. Yet, this will only succeed if the state steps up with the necessary financial backing. WhatsApp Únete a nuestra comunidad de WhatsApp Recibe gratis las noticias más importantes y de utilidad de Carolina del Norte directo en tu celular. Haz preguntas y comentarios, y charla con nuestros periodistas. This moment calls for a reevaluation of priorities. With the devastation in western North Carolina, now is not the time to divert public funds to private school vouchers. The shift of $463 million of public tax dollars to pay for so-called “vouchers” for private schools undermines the recovery efforts that our communities so desperately need. It’s crucial that state leaders ensure these funds remain in public education, where they can directly benefit the students who have already faced so much disruption. Our General Assembly must not only express their support through words but also through tangible financial commitments to Western North Carolina public schools. Investments such as addressing school infrastructure and technology needs, expanding mental health services, increasing support for low-income and at-risk students, and retaining and recruiting high-quality educators via increased pay and benefits will all help students regain a sense of normalcy and rebuild their academic standing. This is a long-term effort that goes beyond rebuilding classrooms; it’s about restoring hope and stability to our communities. As we move forward, lawmakers and education leaders alike will have the opportunity to shape the future of education in our state. Regardless of political affiliation, we need leaders who recognize the value of public education and who will prioritize our schools and teachers over divisive rhetoric. Now is the time for leaders who understand the realities of the classroom and who are committed to building a future where every student, especially those in crisis, has the opportunity to succeed. The resilience of our schools and educators is unwavering. But to truly rebuild and recover, North Carolina must commit to investing in the resources that our students and teachers need. It’s not just about restoring buildings — it’s about nurturing the potential of every child and ensuring that, even in the face of disaster, they have a path to a brighter future. __________ Kimberly Jones is an English and Humanities teacher for Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools. She is the 2023 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year. This column is syndicated by Beacon Media , please contact info@beacnmedianc.org with feedback or questions. The following article is an expression of personal opinion and does not necessarily represent the opinions or policies of Enlace Latino NC organization. This article has the purpose to generate discussion and exchange of ideas on the subject matter. The author is responsible for the opinions expressed in this article, which are based on his/her personal knowledge, experience and analysis of the subject. Enlace Latino NC combate la desinformación, eleva las voces de los inmigrantes y fomenta una comunidad más inclusiva e informada. ¡Tu apoyo hace la diferencia! Desde ahora hasta el 31 de diciembre, cada donación será triplicada (hasta $1,000). PODCAST En este episodio, exploramos el impacto de las políticas migratorias en la salud mental de los migrantes. Escucha testimonios de quienes viven con este miedo a diario y de terapeutas que explican sus efectos. Además, un periodista especializado nos brinda el contexto las políticas migratorias en el estado. Enlace Latino podcast Republish This Story Republique gratuitamente nuestras historias en su website o periódico. Seguimos la licencia de Creative Commons. Dele clic al recuadro, y siga las instrucciones. Republish this article This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License . by Beacon Media, Enlace Latino NC December 8, 2024
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the incident, one thing remained clear: the power of kindness and compassion to bridge gaps and build connections in times of need. The woman's act of generosity served as a reminder of the importance of reaching out to others with understanding and support, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Ultimately, it was up to the jury to determine the serviceman's fate. After days of deliberation and weighing the evidence presented, the jury delivered a shocking verdict of not guilty. The decision sparked a wave of protests and outcry from advocates for social justice and civil rights, who viewed the verdict as a miscarriage of justice and a reinforcement of systemic abuses of power.It may feel like 2024 has been a terrible year — just like 2023, if not worse. The devastating wars in the Middle East, Ukraine and Sudan have dragged on, while the United States has seen an exceptional tornado season, deadly hurricanes and a fraught, polarized election cycle that has left many feeling exhausted, anxious or despairing. Not to mention that scientists say it is “virtually certain” that 2024 will become Earth’s warmest year on record. And yet — these difficult developments aren’t the full story of the year, either. Scientists continued work to fight disease, there were some wins for animal conservation, and many individuals — in ways big and small — continued to achieve remarkable things. If you’re looking for some hope this holiday season, read on. This year, Chad became the 51st country recognized by the World Health Organization for eliminating a neglected tropical disease. Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) — a fly-borne disease also known as sleeping sickness — is caused by parasites and spread through the bite of the tsetse fly. There is no vaccine to prevent the disease and, if left untreated, it is almost always fatal. Chad eliminated the disease following “years of dedicated efforts,” the country’s health minister said, including improved surveillance, testing and pest control. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved more drugs with the potential to transform lives, including a therapy that uses patients’ own cells to attack skin cancer, which was approved for use in adults with melanoma that has spread or cannot be removed with surgery. Experts said the decision could open the door to similar treatments for far more common cancers. A new drug for schizophrenia that appears to avoid the side effects that cause many patients to stop taking their medication also received FDA approval. And some previously approved treatments have started making an impact on patients’ lives — such as a technique to fix cartilage instead of full knee replacements, which one patient said meant she now experienced “zero pain.” We all know that exercise and eating healthily is good for us — but it can be easier said than done. Research this year has reminded us that even small steps can make a difference. For example, just an additional five minutes of exercise per day could help to slightly lower your blood pressure, while even low-intensity activities, like walking around while cooking, can increase your odds of healthy aging. Separate research found it’s never too late to take up weightlifting — which is great news for anyone hoping to stave off frailty in later life. And if it’s mental rather than physical health that’s on your mind — here’s a reminder that even small acts of kindness can be surprisingly beneficial. With the Olympics and Paralympics taking place in Paris over the summer, the world’s attention was on the physical feats of the world’s greatest sportsmen and women. Americans Simone Biles and Katie Ledecky became some of the most decorated Olympians in history, while Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone set a new world record — for the sixth time. More than 40 athletics records were broken during the Paralympics alone. Other individuals accomplished new goals, and inspired their communities, outside the spotlight of the Paris Games — including Betty Brussel, of British Columbia, who at 99 years old broke three competitive swimming world records in her age group, and Virginia Hislop, of Yakima, Washington, who received her master’s degree from Stanford University at the age of 105. There’s no denying the very real threat of a changing climate. But climate despair also worries some scientists, who fear this can lead to defeatism or inaction — so here are some positive advances to remember this year. Researchers were able to detect a significant dip in atmospheric levels of hydrochlorofluorocarbons — harmful gases that deplete the ozone layer — for the first time, almost 30 years after countries first agreed to phase out the chemicals. A new satellite launched in March to track and publicly reveal the biggest methane polluters in the oil and gas industry — an important step in tackling the greenhouse gas that accounts for almost a third of global warming. The NASA/Carbon Mapper satellite, which measures CO2 and methane emissions, also launched, providing detailed images from individual oil and gas facilities across the world. Back on Earth, the world’s largest plant for pulling carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere opened in Iceland. Norway became the first country to have more electric than gas-powered vehicles, while one Japanese island began using a new generation of batteries to help stockpile massive amounts of clean electricity. There were also small but important victories for animal conservation. The Iberian lynx, a European wildcat once on the brink of extinction, is no longer classed as an “endangered” species — in what experts have hailed as the “greatest recovery of a cat species ever achieved through conservation.” And five Hawaiian crows — rare, intelligent birds also known as ʻalala — began flying free after years in captivity, as part of a radical conservation strategy. Despite a large number of powerful tornadoes to hit the United States in early 2024, the death tolls were fortunately not as high as meteorologists feared, in part due to improved forecasting technology. And even amid the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, there were heartwarming moments. One father trekked 27 miles through roads flooded by Helene — a dramatic journey involving being trapped in mud, navigating debris, and the kindness of strangers — in time to walk his daughter down the aisle. And when an emergency room nurse and single mom lost her home and all of her possessions during flooding in Connecticut, a thoughtful stranger meant she was reunited with the sonogram photos of her 3-year-old son. Her local community also rallied to help her find free temporary accommodation, and raised more than $206,000 toward buying a new house. 2024 was a year for rare celestial sights. People in 13 U.S. states, as well as parts of Mexico and Canada, were treated to the sight of darkness falling in the middle of the day, as a total eclipse swept across the three countries in April. Then in May, countries from the United States to South Africa were treated to one of the most vibrant displays of auroras in 500 years, according to NASA, thanks to an “extreme” geomagnetic storm. If you’re a fan of auroras, there are also reasons for optimism in 2025 — NASA says the sun’s storm activity is peaking, which means there should be more opportunities to spot beautiful auroras in the year ahead.
Moreover, fostering a culture of responsible investing and risk awareness is crucial in ensuring the long-term sustainability of both the real estate and stock markets. Educating investors about market dynamics, investment risks, and financial literacy can help prevent market bubbles, reduce irrational exuberance, and promote a more balanced and informed investment landscape.