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A judge on Monday granted a request by prosecutors to dismiss the election subversion case against Donald Trump because of a Justice Department policy of not prosecuting a sitting president. Judge Tanya Chutkan agreed to the request by Special Counsel Jack Smith to dismiss the case against the president-elect "without prejudice," meaning it could potentially be revived after Trump leaves the White House four years from now. "Dismissal without prejudice is appropriate here," Chutkan said, adding in the ruling that "the immunity afforded to a sitting President is temporary, expiring when they leave office." Trump, 78, was accused of conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 election he lost to Joe Biden and removing large quantities of top secret documents after leaving the White House, but the cases never came to trial. Smith also moved on Monday to drop his appeal of the dismissal of the documents case filed against the former president in Florida. That case was tossed out earlier this year by a Trump-appointed judge on the grounds that Smith was unlawfully appointed. The special counsel paused the election interference case and the documents case this month after Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in the November 5 presidential election. Smith cited the long-standing Justice Department policy of not indicting or prosecuting a sitting president in his motions to have the cases dismissed. "The Government's position on the merits of the defendant's prosecution has not changed," Smith said in the filing with Chutkan. "But the circumstances have." "It has long been the position of the Department of Justice that the United States Constitution forbids the federal indictment and subsequent criminal prosecution of a sitting President," Smith said. "As a result this prosecution must be dismissed before the defendant is inaugurated." In a separate filing, Smith said he was withdrawing his appeal of the dismissal of the classified documents case against Trump but pursuing the case against his two co-defendants, Trump valet Walt Nauta and Mar-a-Lago property manager Carlos De Oliveira. Trump, in a post on Truth Social, said the cases were "empty and lawless, and should never have been brought." "Over $100 Million Dollars of Taxpayer Dollars has been wasted in the Democrat Party's fight against their Political Opponent, ME," he said. "Nothing like this has ever happened in our Country before." Trump was accused of conspiracy to defraud the United States and conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding -- the session of Congress called to certify Biden's win, which was violently attacked on January 6, 2021 by a mob of the then-president's supporters. Trump was also accused of seeking to disenfranchise US voters with his false claims that he won the 2020 election. The former and incoming president also faces two state cases -- in New York and Georgia. He was convicted in New York in May of 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels on the eve of the 2016 election to stop her from revealing an alleged 2006 sexual encounter. However, Judge Juan Merchan has postponed sentencing while he considers a request from Trump's lawyers that the conviction be thrown out in light of the Supreme Court ruling in July that an ex-president has broad immunity from prosecution. In Georgia, Trump faces racketeering charges over his efforts to subvert the 2020 election results in the southern state, but that case will likely be frozen while he is in office. cl/sms
The coach of the Barca Football Club, a firm believer in team spirit and unity, commended Enzo and Jackson for their exemplary behavior on and off the field. "Football is a team sport, and success is only possible through the combined efforts of each player," he stated. "Enzo's decision to prioritize gratitude over personal glory exemplifies the values we uphold as a club."The player's unique blend of skill, speed, and footballing intelligence has caught the attention of scouts and managers from top clubs around the globe. His ability to score and create goals with ease has made him a sought-after commodity in the transfer market, with many clubs vying for his signature.Posts area Latest 1 of 1 Latest posts Latest posts 7.22am ‘I’m not a quitter’: Mettam responds to ‘catastrophic’ polling that suggest Zempilas should be leader WA’s Liberal party leader has thrown down the gauntlet to challengers after polling predicted the “immediate appointment” of Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas as leader would allow the flailing party to gain back five seats at the election. Libby Mettam has labelled the polling, commissioned by a mystery Perth business person with links to the party, as ‘flawed and clearly biased’, and has challenged anyone who wishes to be leader to move a no confidence motion against her during a meeting today. Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas and Liberal Party leader Libby Mettam. Credit: Holly Thompson/ Supplied “Constant undermining of leaders, especially from the shadows within, is a sad reality in politics today,” she said. “But rather than weaken me it has made me stronger and more determined to succeed - not for myself - but for the people of Western Australia who deserve better. “I’m not a quitter, I’m a fighter.” The polling, published in The West Australian today, suggested another catastrophic election for the Liberals come election day in March. The party currently holds just three out of 59 seats in the Legislative Assembly, with the polling predicting the party has gone backwards since the 2021 election bloodbath, losing ground in 14 key metropolitan seats. Under Mettam, the party is predicted to suffer a 4 per cent drop, with the Liberal primary vote falling to 31 per cent in blue-ribbon seats like Churchlands and Nedlands. On the flip-side, the polling suggests a 3 per cent swing towards the Liberal party under Zempilas’ leadership, and a 38 per cent primary vote. The research, carried out by Sodali and Co, said Zempilas’ leadership could deliver wins in Churchlands, Nedlands, Carine, Bateman and Scarborough. 7.22am Across the nation and around the world Here’s what’s making news this morning. Labor has gained a crucial concession from the Greens after a year of dispute over a $5.5 billion housing plan, but other bills are on the brink of defeat after Senate crossbenchers blasted Labor for trying to rush through changes on various issues. As Australia’s richest person, Gina Rinehart has few qualms about giving out advice to the country’s leaders – and the odd museum curator. Former Hancock Prospecting employee James Radford, Sam Bjelke-Petersen, Gina Rinehart and former Liberal Party vice president Teena McQueen at a Trump rally in Virginia. Social media companies including Snapchat, TikTok, and Meta have taken aim at the “rushed” consultation process for the proposal ban on children under 16. Treasurer Jim Chalmers has revealed the budget bottom line is getting worse ahead of the looming federal election, with warnings he faces a $27 billion blowout over the next four years. Overseas, Israel’s cabinet will meet on Tuesday to approve a ceasefire deal with Hezbollah, with expectations that an accord could be announced “within hours”. In the US, Special Counsel Jack Smith asked a federal judge on Monday to dismiss the case accusing President-elect Donald Trump of plotting to overturn the 2020 election. 7.22am Today’s weather Mostly sunny today with a top of 25 degrees. Advertisement 7.22am This morning in Perth Good morning readers, and welcome to our live news blog for Tuesday, November 26. Making headlines this morning, Perth is tipped to outperform the rest of the country in property price growth with forecasts predicting double figure jumps in 2025. Meanwhile, cast your mind back to your school days – or, rather, the very end of your school days and the next step you took. Did you get a high score to enrol in the university degree of your choice? Did you decide to bypass the ATAR exams – or the equivalent of the era, for those older readers – and go straight into an apprenticeship? What about if you got a high ATAR score, but decided to go down the vocational pathway? That’s the situation Ellie Wotherspoon found herself in, having graduated from school with an impressive ATAR of 91. With an ATAR like that, Wotherspoon could have studied law, or medicine, or molecular science. But currently, she’s an electrician working on one of oil and gas giant Woodside’s offshore rigs. Wotherspoon tells WAtoday education reporter Holly Thompson what made her choose the sparky life here. Ellie Wotherspoon, from WA, has attended TAFE and university after receiving an ATAR over 90. And regular readers of this blog – and WAtoday more broadly – would know we’ve got our fingers on the pulse of this great state’s dining scene. And today, food writer Max Veenhuyzen fills you in on the latest happenings in the world of pastry cases with, er, fillings. From creative fillings to stocking choc milk and ginger beer in the fridge, a cosy nostalgia-fuelled takeaway in Leederville celebrates both the past and the future. Always on the lookout for a great pie? Read the latest from Max here. Thanks again for joining us today, stay with us as we bring you all the news you need to know. Latest 1 of 1 Latest Most Viewed in National Loading
(Bloomberg) — Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Bavaria’s prime minister, Markus Soeder, said they’re open to reforming the country’s strict borrowing limits, signaling a departure from the traditional stance of the conservative Christian Democrats, who are leading in polls ahead of an election in February. Merkel said there’s a case for limited relaxation, arguing that Germany needs to increase defense spending and invest in areas where it lags behind to maintain social peace. “What is important is a reform that only allows debt for investments and not for further social spending,” she said in an interview with Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland. Sepatarely, Soeder told Stern magazine in an interview published Tuesday that he’s in favor of reforming debt rules as long as federal and state spending rules are aligned. The remarks add to a growing debate about the so-called debt brake, long championed by conservative politicians. Two weeks ago, Friedrich Merz, the Christian Democrat candidate for chancellor, signaled openness to reform to give the government more wiggle room. The rules, established in 2009 following the global financial crisis, limit net new borrowing to no more than 0.35% of GDP to help keep the budget deficit in check. Exceptions are allowed during national emergencies or recessions. Debate around loosening the framework has intensified as the country heads toward February’s snap election, with even Merz, who is leading in opinion polls, acknowledging the need for more flexibility to help in areas such as infrastructure, energy and defense.Guangzhou, a bustling metropolis in southern China known for its rich history and vibrant economy, has taken a significant step towards fostering the growth of independent brands in the cross-border e-commerce sector. The city has recently launched a series of roadshow events aimed at providing a platform for emerging entrepreneurs to showcase their products and connect with potential investors and partners.
The stock market surged by more than 20% in 2024, surprising most strategists. Growth-focused mutual fund managers excelled, driven by investments in technology firms. They remain optimistic for 2025, despite concerns over valuations and tariff impacts. This year's 25% stock-market surge surprised most strategists , though a handful of fund managers seemed to know what was coming. An analysis of the top-performing mutual funds of 2024 found that, unsurprisingly, growth-minded managers fared best again this year. Artificial intelligence remained all the rage, as investors poured money into mega-cap technology companies like Nvidia and Alphabet that are at the forefront of this movement. Other Magnificent Seven stalwarts like Tesla and Meta outperformed in a friendly backdrop for stocks marked by solid economic growth, robust corporate profits, and falling inflation and interest rates. Wall Street is generally bullish about 2025 , especially since President-elect Trump has promised to cut taxes and remove regulations. But some market veterans are antsy , given Trump's tariff proposals and their potential impact on global trade, growth, and inflation. Before moving into the new year, it's worth bidding adieu to 2024 by seeing which fund managers notched the best returns and learning from the investing strategies that made them money. Below are 10 of the best-performing funds in markets and analyses of what helped them succeed, according to research and interviews done by Business Insider's investing team. The list is based on The Wall Street Journal's fund screener, excludes leveraged funds, and reflects performance as of December 17.
The first emotion that a baby often displays is confusion. As the medical professional prepares the syringe and approaches with the needle, the baby's innocent eyes widen in puzzlement. They may furrow their tiny brow, trying to make sense of the unfamiliar sensation and the sudden attention directed towards them. This confusion is palpable in the room, as the baby's silent queries hang in the air.
Lifelong learning as a cornerstone of the academic bridgeKentucky will aim to improve upon its best start in seven seasons when it hosts Western Kentucky on Tuesday night in Lexington, Ky., in the final game of the BBN Invitational. The Wildcats (5-0) are ranked No. 8 in the latest Associated Press poll and are setting impressive offensive milestones even for a program as tradition-rich as Kentucky, which includes eight national championships. The Wildcats have scored 97 or more points in their first four home games for the first time in program history and eclipsed the 100-point mark in three of those games. Their lone trip out of state was a solid 77-72 victory over Duke in a matchup of top-10 teams in Atlanta. Kentucky has also made at least 10 three-pointers in each of its first five games of a season for the first time ever. "I think Kentucky attracts good people," Kentucky coach Mark Pope said after the Wildcats' 108-59 win over Jackson State on Friday. "It's the one place in all college basketball where you represent just a fanbase in a different, unique way." Otega Oweh and Koby Brea have led the Wildcats' early scoring outburst. Oweh, who is averaging 16.2 points per game, had 21 points on 8-for-12 shooting against Jackson State. "He gets us off to unbelievable starts every night," Pope told reporters after that game. "He's probably been our most consistent guy in games." Brea, who scored 22 points against Jackson State and is averaging 16.0 points per game, is leading the nation in 3-point accuracy at 74.1 percent. As a team, the Wildcats are shooting 42.3 percent from beyond the arc. And the few times they miss, Amari Williams has been doing the dirty work on the glass, averaging 10.8 boards in addition to 9.6 points per game. Kentucky faces a different challenge than it's had to contend with so far in the Hilltoppers (3-2), who have won three in a row after losing their first two games to Wichita State and Grand Canyon. Their up-tempo play hasn't exactly resulted in great offensive output, but in the Hilltoppers' 79-62 win over Jackson State on Wednesday, they shot 45.2 percent from 3-point range (14 for 31). "I was happy to see a lot of different guys contribute tonight and, hopefully, get their feet under them a little bit and get some confidence," said Western Kentucky coach Hank Plona, who is in his first season as head coach. "Obviously, Tuesday will be quite a test and challenge for us and we'll need them to be at their absolute best." Western Kentucky has an experienced group, which returned mostly intact from last season. The team is led by Conference USA first-team selection Don McHenry, who is leading the team with 17.2 points and 2.2 steals per game. McHenry is one of four Hilltoppers with scoring averages in double figures. Julius Thedford (11.4 points per game) and Babacar Faye (15.0) are each shooting 40 percent or better from 3-point range. Western Kentucky also figures to challenge the Wildcats on the boards as it enters the game ranked in the top 25 in defensive rebounding (30.4 per game). Faye leads the Hilltoppers in that department, averaging 7.8 rebounds per game and figures to battle Williams inside. "We're not the biggest team in the world, but our depth and our quickness are our strengths," Plona said. --Field Level Media
The news of Franck Kessie replacing Ismael Bennacer in the starting lineup has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, with fans and analysts alike speculating on the reasons behind this bold move. Ismael Bennacer, known for his exceptional midfield playmaking skills, has been a pivotal player for Milan this season, helping the team secure a top spot in the Serie A standings. However, it seems that the Milan coaching staff believes that Kessie's physicality and defensive prowess will be better suited to the challenges posed by their upcoming Champions League opponents.(BPT) - The holidays are almost here! It means parties and events, hustle and bustle ... and figuring out what to buy for everyone on your list. Sometimes it's hard to get inspired with great ideas that your nears and dears will love at a price you can afford, right? The good news? Inspiration + savings are covered this year. One of the top gifts of Holiday 2024 is technology, and there are a lot of deals out there right now. Done and done! Here are 5 ideas for hot tech gifts for everyone on your list. Smartphones for the family T-Mobile is running a hot deal right now. Get four new smartphones at T-Mobile — this includes Samsung Galaxy S24 and other eligible devices — and four lines for just $100/month . It doesn't get better than that! These new Galaxy phones are tech-tastic, too, with features like AI, Circle to Search with Google, which can be used to help solve math problems and translate entire pages of text in a different language, and Note Assist with Galaxy AI, which lets you focus on capturing your notes and then Note Assist will summarize, format and even translate them for you. High tech spiral notebook for students We've got to admit, this is pretty cool. The Rocketbook looks (a bit) like a regular spiral, paper notebook. Here's the high tech twist: You can take notes, capture ideas, brainstorm, draw — whatever you do on paper — on the pad, and the Rocketbook digitizes your doodles and saves to the cloud device of your choice. Then you simply wipe the pad clean and it's good to go. Look for Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales at your favorite online retailer. Wrist-worthy smartwatches for athletes (or those who want to be) Everyone loves smartwatches (if you're not already tracking your sleep and heart rate, where have you been?) and the Google Pixel Watch 3 (41mm & 45mm) takes it to the next level with features for athletes or anyone who may be setting fitness goals for the coming year. The watch has workout prompts like Real Time Guidance — audio and haptic cues for when to sprint, cool down or maintain pace. It gives you the ability to program your workouts and even monitors your cadence and stride. It also has Offline Maps, with driving navigation, search and maps. Here's the deal of the century: Get it for free at T-Mobile when adding a qualifying watch line. Cute wireless keyboard for people who are all thumbs Who else is annoyed by typing email or texts or social posts on a smartphone? The Logitech Multi-Device Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard solves that problem with style! It comes in sweet colors like lavender, it's wireless, it's small and portable, and it works with just about any device. Pop it into your backpack or purse and you'll never have to thumb-out a message again. Speakers perfect for hosting and giving Have a music lover in your life or need the perfect hosting gift? T-Mobile has you covered. For a limited time, you can get the JBL Clip 5 for free when you pick up a Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 9 . The JBL Clip 5 is an ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker perfect for those on the go and the Onyx Studio 9's sleek design and booming sound will take care of all your holiday hosting needs. For more tech-tastic holiday gift inspiration, check out T-Mobile's holiday gift guide at t-mobile.com/devices/tech-gifts .3. Encouraging Entrepreneurship and Self-Employment Opportunities:
Please enable JavaScript to read this content. To some, Cabinet Secretary for Mining and Blue Economy Hassan Joho is an unprincipled man who changes like a chameleon to blend and survive with the prevailing political environment. His ardent supporters, however, believe Joho is a man who is unafraid to make tough decisions and stands even if it offends the status quo. Like the famous phrase that there are no permanent enemies in politics, history writers would spare a chapter for Joho, if the last few months of his relationship with Kenya Kwanza administration is anything to read from. Joho, alias Sultan, has made a 180-degree turn; from a fierce critic of President William Ruto to an ardent supporter ready to defend Kenya Kwanza with all his political might. Critics say Joho is following in the footsteps of past prominent leaders from the Coast, a region whose history is rich with cases of sycophantic elites who would say anything to please presidents. In the 1980s and 90s, there was Kanu stalwart, the late Shariff Nassir of mpende msipende clarion, later adopted by former Kwale Senator the late Boy Juma Boy. Joho and his supporters described his brand of politics as pragmatic. They say Joho is a flexible leader who prioritizes outcomes or benefits for his people over ideology. Crying more CS Joho claims to be a political disciple of ODM leader Raila Odinga, who has in the past joined his fierce opponents. He says, like Raila, he would be ready to build bridges. In the past few days, Joho’s maxim kama mbaya, ni mbaya. Kama ni noma ni noma (If it is bad, so be it. If it is chaos, so be it) in defence of Ruto has sparked debate on online platforms. He said government operatives will strongly respond to what is alleged. “We have mouths like you. You are on social media, but we are on the ground,” he said. In what the so-called online warriors have described as crying more than the bereaved, Joho said unpatriotic Kenyans were tarnishing Ruto and his government’s image overseas. He appeared irked by a section of Kenyans when he claimed that those loudest on social media attacking Ruto were using Wi-Fi provided by the government. Stay informed. Subscribe to our newsletter Joho mocked those cyberbullying or “greeting” via MPesa, challenging those sending him a shilling to increase the amount to Sh100. “I will come for you,” Joho told the online users. On Friday, Joho appeared to tone down, hinting that his outburst was because of the embarrassment he was subjected to in New York by investors who read only bad things about Kenya in the online space. He said it was important for every Kenyan to realize that they have a contribution to make in wooing investors into the country, saying that there was a need for all citizens to market the country positively. “Let us be responsible. It is our country, we cannot have another Kenya. One year wasted is far too long for future generations,” he said. Joho has used his docket to traverse the country and propagate Ruto’s agenda, defend the broad-based government, and attack former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for allegedly propagating tribalism. “You grow onions here, do you ask what tribe your buyers belong to or do you just take their money?” he charged. Joho’s praise of Ruto and his government is a stark difference from barely two years ago when he vowed not to support what he said was a “stone age wheelbarrow” ideology. “This is the only country where someone takes to social media anatengeza kaburi na kuombea viongozi mabaya, you will not remove this government using social media,” Joho said in part. In July 2024, after the Gen Z protests, Joho came out with guns blazing harshly criticizing Ruto and his government. He claimed in his life, he had never seen a liar, corrupt, and tribal person like Ruto. During the presidential campaign, in May 2022, Joho also branded Ruto as the most corrupt and dishonest person he had ever seen. “Maisha yangu tangu nizaliwe sijawahi ona mtu muongo, mfisadi, baradhuli...kama William Samoei Ruto,” he said in part. In November 2021, Joho harshly responded to claims of engaging Ruto ahead of the 2022 general election. He said he had nothing to discuss with the then DP. “I don’t even dream of engaging with DP Ruto. What will I discuss with him? What will he give me? A wheelbarrow? I played with a wheelbarrow a long time ago as a child,” he said. During his vetting, Joho was asked to explain how he would engage with President Ruto who he had harshly criticized in the past but noted that “only a fool does not change his mind.” “I have been a big critic of this government. Now, I have an opportunity to create a difference. I will do exactly that,” Joho responded. Critics say Joho’s political modus operandi presents him as unprincipled and guided by selfish interests due to his family business empire’s run-ins with the State agencies after Ruto rose to power. During the vetting for the Cabinet post, Joho disclosed that he is worth Sh2.36 billion spreading in the shipping and logistics business, property, valuables, cash in banks, and shareholding in the family business. His family’s business empire came under threat after State agencies like Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) cancelled leases and contracts worth billions of shillings linked to the port of Mombasa. Joho family’s Autoports Terminal Limited (APTL) and Kenya Railways Corporation (KR) deal for the transportation of cargo by the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) came under sharp focus. In the special audit report dated August 10, the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) said the contractual agreement was not transparent and could expose the government and taxpayers to litigation risks. The report said KR could be losing revenue due to the government as a result of irregular leasing of the Nairobi Freight Terminal (NFT) to M/s Autoports Freight Terminal Limited. Joho’s family has also lost the battle to develop the second grain bulk handling terminal at the port of Mombasa after KPA decided to review all land leases at the port. The family empire seeks to develop the grain handling terminal at the port at Sh5.9 billion. Audit trail Currently, Portside and KPA are locked in a legal battle after the latter suspended the 20-year lease granted to the firm on June 30, 2022. KPA leased Shed Five, which is 100,000 square feet, and Shed Six which is 70,000 square feet, in a deal that was to start from July 1, 2022. Meanwhile, Autoports’ deal to transport South Sudan cargo by SGR from the port and handle it at the NFT leased from KR was also questioned with State agencies pushing for its cancellation. The audit highlighted irregularities in KR, as a procuring entity, entering into a contract with M/s Autoports on terms that were not approved by the board. It said that the procedure followed to have a contractual agreement between KR and M/s Autoports Freight Terminal Limited was not transparent and lacked the requisite documents with a clear audit trail as opposed to the similar agreement between KR and M/s Grain Bulk Handlers Limited (GBHL). Mombasa lawyer Abubakar Yusuf says Joho would do everything to ensure the success of Ruto because it would guarantee him a post in post-2027 polls. “What Joho is doing is nothing new in politics. Ruto and Raila Odinga attacked each other and have closed ranks. Raila and Uhuru fought fiercely and in 2018 they had a handshake,” Yusuf said. Coast Human Rights Coordinator Julius Ogogoh says Joho had the right to support whoever he wants, but as a public officer, he cannot threaten those with divergent opinions.Title: Safeguarding the Growth of Minors with Legal Protection - "Prosecutor's Public Lecture" Series Broadcasted on KuaishouYour weekly horoscope is here . One more week of Mercury retrograde "foot-in-mouth" moments to go, or have you come across vital intel in the chaos? Keep an eye on your calendar so you don’t miss dates or mix up appointments. This is an incredibly restless month—keep focused so your messages end up in the correct inbox! It’s Friday the 13th, but is it actually lucky? Indeed! La Luna has 12 to 13 cycles per year, so get in tune with the moon (and your emotions) as this week builds up to full potency. Social planet Venus, in Aquarius, suggests tech, donations to a good cause, books, and group experiences are compelling festive season spends. Make friends, talk about things that matter, and look into someone else’s world to expand your own. Read on to discover what’s in store for your sign during the week of December 8 through December 14, 2024. Aries As Venus, the planet of love and beauty, graces your social sphere for the festive season, you’ve got people to see and places to be. Enjoy your wider circles and niche groups of diverse people. This is your time to mingle if you’re single and looking. Make the most of your networks, as love may be found through a friend of a friend—or is that friend potentially something more? Nonprofits, helping out those less fortunate, or digging in for a good cause can add meaning and release a feeling of the "helper’s high." Heading out to events and venues that are off the beaten track or a little different—either edgy or geeky—is a must. Online and virtual spaces aren’t off the table either, so be open to novelty if it suits you, and shut it down if it doesn’t. Taurus As your ruling planet Venus swaps practicality for progressive circles and ideas, it’s time to get social in your professional or public sphere. If you have an online presence, yes—show up and glow up. Consider an interview spree on your social media, polishing up your brand, whether personal or professional, and mingling. Yes, you’re going to the office end-of-year party, as it’s also a great way to get to know the people you spend so much of your time with. If you work remotely, solo, not at all, or are a student, then whatever you do, take the time to get to know the people around you. You may be as much of an enigma to them as they are to you! Consider how you can pull together a group collaboration that can benefit you all with skills, knowledge sharing, or pooling of resources. Gemini As Venus, the planet of pleasure, heads up your international and big-picture sphere for the rest of the year, it’s time to open up your lens on love. Connection on the go, visual inspiration, and maybe even a new friend (or maybe more) from another part of the globe is on the cards. This isn’t your usual borrow-the-sugar-from-the-gal-or-guy-next-door approach; rather, it’s reaching further afield. The key is being open to fresh ideas, new faces and places, friending first, and a meeting of the minds—which happens to be in line with your personal approach most of the time. Listening to others’ opinions and sharing your own takes you both higher if you’re willing to practice nonattachment. Imagine letting ideas circulate freely between you, like the air circulates. Bring this quality to your social side to make the best of the season. Cancer While you tend to be the type to cuddle up, the mood of love is spacious, cool, and breezy for the rest of the year. Venus moves into the sign of Aquarius, suggesting sentiment is out and detached objectivity is in. Don’t be surprised at your own ability to stand back and take control in your love life or with a deep connection. The detachment will prove valuable and may open you up to new resources and collaborations—and benefit your current deep and meaningfuls. A key to surviving and thriving this week is not to take things personally. Do embrace the power of your love, desire, and aesthetics. If you’ve ever been interested in a scientific approach to metaphysics or psychology, spare time over the holidays may be your period to pursue it. Leo The ongoing headline with your name on it is that Mars is retrograde in your sign until it backs all the way into Cancer, the zodiac sign before yours. Around the turning point, Mars seems to barely move day by day. Its "apparent motion," when viewed from here on Earth, looks like it’s moving through soft toffee. And that may be how you’re feeling—or just what you need. Since progress can require reflection as much as it does planning and forecasting, take the time to look over your shoulder, take a trip down memory lane, or take a step back. Note what or who comes up from the past for a revisit or closer inspection. It may inspire your own path or get you back on one you’d veered away from. And of course, get plenty of rest, and consider slowing down a little. Venus in your opposite sign heralds a focus on love and partnership, from bae to bestie. Make dates, catch up with favorites, and spark joy through your one-to-ones. Virgo Go for intense relationships or power coupling in your work and wellness zone as the planet of love sidles up to the planet of power. Remember there is power in numbers, so be sure to unite and don’t fall for any divisions. You could meet a very strong character or feel irresistibly drawn to someone—or is that your own charisma off the hook right now? This is a great time to focus on what you enjoy about your work, take on a project or a fitness challenge, and give it a quirky twist. Chat to all sorts of people, ask their stories, and you’ll appreciate them all the more. The work break-up parties are a chance to get to know colleagues better, and if your fitness group or gym celebrates, it’s worth going and making new connections. For this month, create a daily ritual or routine around love and beauty to amplify it in your life. Remember to call in more of what you want by giving it your attention. Libra As your ruling planet Venus is traveling through sister air sign Aquarius, it’s in your favor to stoke the fires of romance, friendship, and self-expression. Do what you love, enjoy your leisure time, and schedule in dates with bae. Single and ready to mingle? Get out there, have fun, and pursue your interests—a great way to meet Mr./Ms. Right. A love of writing, communication, ideas, and general meeting of the minds is hot right now (like it ever went out of fashion). Like you, Aquarius is an air sign and associated with communication, as well as liberty and equality, so you do you as this month suits your personal style. Ready to put your ideas into a long-form creative masterpiece or design that unique vision you’ve been harboring? Now is your time to shine and enjoy every moment of it. Scorpio As Venus heads up your domestic sphere, it’s time to kick back and enjoy home sweet home. As the planet of beauty, design, and pleasure, why not go with what Venus does best and make your space more comfortable or gorgeous? Restore design harmony by rearranging, adding some color, or going all out with a total makeover. As a metaphysical sign, perhaps the deeper layer that Feng Shui taps into is more your bag, so take the time to pick up some tips and try them out. Observe and experiment with results. That said, not everything has to be deep and meaningful, and this month the home front is best enjoyed on a convivial level. It’s the festive season, so at home at least, give yourself a break and enjoy some lighter interactions with the fam, roommates, or host friends. Sagittarius Quick trips, local dates, meeting new friends, and catching up with long-term ones—sound good? For the rest of the month, size up and seize social opportunities. Venus in your sphere of local happenings and connections suggests you have people to meet and greet. If you’re having a birthday celebration or two, then bringing your diverse friends together and cross-pollinating ideas can be rewarding. Choose a topic or something to create a focus and get people to contribute so each person has a moment of allowing others to really see them. If you’re researching a particular topic, make sure it’s something that stimulates your mind and consider roping in a think tank of friends to discuss and develop ideas with. Take time to connect with those around you on your daily jaunts, and check in on neighbors who could do with a little attention at this time of year. Capricorn Venus, the planet representing love, harmony, and values, heads up your financial sector for the rest of the year. In the sign of people power and innovation, it’s time to rethink your spending habits, look for creative income streams, and perhaps invest in community-based projects or shared resources. This month is about aligning your material values with your social ones. Ask yourself how your spending reflects your priorities and whether you’re supporting what matters most to you. You might find joy in gifting experiences or supporting local artisans rather than opting for mass-produced items. Mingling with more diverse groups of people is on the cards at this time of year, and in this case it benefits you to engage meaningfully as well as practically. Aquarius It’s always a good time when Venus shifts into your sign! The planet representing love, aesthetics, beauty, and the way we socialize is in Aquarius through January 2, 2025. The festive season takes on a flavor you’re partial to—it highlights your social side, sparks interest in others, and brings joy in being surrounded by both friends and strangers. When Venus is in your sign, your charm, grace, fashion, and social mobility are elevated. This is a perfect time to update your look, tweak your brand, get new headshots, or find your festive-season style. The more unique, the better—this month, you’re the trendsetter. Others are more accommodating to causes, so if you’re fundraising or promoting something important, now is your time. Venus in Aquarius encourages interesting conversations. Get people talking, as you always do. Pisces With Venus, the planet of love, beauty, and desire, in your sphere of sleep and collective consciousness, your dreams could feel like a mix of romance novels set in futuristic or fantastical landscapes. Keep a visual dream journal to capture images or designs and jot down any words or phrases that come to mind. Spruce up your space to make it both beautiful and relaxing. Incorporate tech to guide you into sleep with soothing sounds and ambient lighting. Exploring your inner world in a group setting—through meditation, music, or connecting with your ancestors—is more than just a pleasurable pursuit right now. Creative projects will benefit from a diverse range of collaborators, so try something out-of-the-box, quirky, and original. Vanessa Montgomery—a.k.a. Astro All-Starz—is a professional counseling astrologer and the upcoming author of Astro Power: A Simple Guide to Prediction and Destiny for the Modern Mystic . Aimed at enlightenment and seeing past labels to the oneness that unites us all, Montgomery’s work also helps navigate the practical essentials with grounded cosmic intel. Her motto: Free your mind, own your power, create your world. You can learn more at astroallstarz.com or follow Montgomery on Instagram @astro_allstarz .
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea's embattled President Yoon Suk Yeol avoided an opposition-led attempt to impeach him over his short-lived imposition of martial law , as most ruling party lawmakers boycotted a parliamentary vote Saturday to deny a two-thirds majority needed to suspend his presidential powers. The scrapping of the motion is expected to intensify protests calling for Yoon’s ouster and deepen political chaos in South Korea, with a survey suggesting a majority of South Koreans support the president’s impeachment. Yoon’s martial law declaration drew criticism from his own ruling conservative People Power Party, but the party is also determined to oppose Yoon’s impeachment apparently because it fears losing the presidency to liberals. After the motion fell through, members of the main liberal opposition Democratic Party rallied inside the National Assembly, chanting slogans calling for Yoon's impeachment or resignation. The party's floor leader, Park Chan-dae, said it will soon prepare for a new impeachment motion. Opposition parties could submit a new impeachment motion after a new parliamentary session opens next Wednesday. “We'll surely impeach Yoon Suk Yeol, who is the greatest risk to Republic of Korea,” party leader Lee Jae-myung said. “We'll surely bring back this country to normal before Christmas Day or year's end.” Many experts worry Yoon won’t be able to serve out his remaining 2 1⁄2 years in office. They say some PPP lawmakers could eventually join opposition parties’ efforts to impeach Yoon if public demands for it grow further. The ruling party risks "further public outrage and national confusion if they don’t find a formula fast for Yoon’s departure,” said Duyeon Kim, a senior analyst at the Center for a New American Security in Washington. PPP chair Han Dong-hun said his party will seek Yoon’s “orderly” early exit but didn’t say when he can resign. On Saturday, tens of thousands of people packed several blocks of roads leading to the National Assembly, waving banners, shouting slogans and dancing. Protesters also gathered in front of PPP’s headquarters near the Assembly, shouting for its lawmakers to vote to impeach Yoon. A smaller crowd of Yoon’s supporters, which still seemed to be in the thousands, rallied elsewhere in Seoul, calling the impeachment attempt unconstitutional. Impeaching Yoon required support from 200 of the National Assembly's 300 members. The Democratic Party and five other small opposition parties, which filed the motion, have 192 seats combined. But only three lawmakers from PPP participated in the vote. The motion was scrapped without ballot counting because the number of votes didn’t reach 200. National Assembly Speaker Woo Won Shik called the result “very regrettable” and an embarrassing moment for the country’s democracy. If Yoon is impeached, his powers will be suspended until the Constitutional Court decides whether to remove him from office. If he is removed, an election to replace him must take place within 60 days. Earlier Saturday, Yoon issued an apology over the martial law decree, saying he won’t shirk legal or political responsibility for the declaration and promising not to make another attempt to impose it. He said would leave it to his party to chart a course through the country’s political turmoil, “including matters related to my term in office.” “The declaration of this martial law was made out of my desperation. But in the course of its implementation, it caused anxiety and inconveniences to the public. I feel very sorry over that and truly apologize to the people who must have been shocked a lot,” Yoon said. Since taking office in 2022, Yoon has struggled to push his agenda through an opposition-controlled parliament and grappled with low approval ratings amid scandals involving himself and his wife. In his martial law announcement on Tuesday night, Yoon called parliament a “den of criminals” bogging down state affairs and vowed to eliminate “shameless North Korea followers and anti-state forces.” The declaration of martial law was the first of its kind in more than 40 years in South Korea. The turmoil has paralyzed South Korean politics and sparked alarm among key diplomatic partners like the U.S. and Japan. “Yoon’s credibility overseas has been undermined by declaring martial law, so he won’t be able to exercise leadership in his foreign policies especially when his days are numbered,” Kim, the analyst, said. “Its government bureaucracy will need to continue business as usual for existing alliance and foreign policy initiatives as best it can because there is a lot of important work to do globally.” Tuesday night saw special forces troops encircling the parliament building and army helicopters hovering over it, but the military withdrew after the National Assembly unanimously voted to overturn the decree, forcing Yoon to lift it before daybreak Wednesday. Eighteen lawmakers from the ruling party voted to reject Yoon’s martial law decree along with opposition lawmakers. PPP later decided to oppose Yoon's impeachment motion. Yoon’s speech fueled speculation that he and his party may push for a constitutional amendment to shorten his term, instead of accepting impeachment, as a way to ease public anger over the marital law and facilitate Yoon’s early exit from office. Lee told reporters that Yoon’s speech was “greatly disappointing” and that the only way forward is his immediate resignation or impeachment. His party called Yoon’s martial law “unconstitutional, illegal rebellion or coup.” Lawmakers on Saturday first voted on a bill appointing a special prosecutor to investigate stock price manipulation allegations surrounding Yoon’s wife. On Friday, Han, who criticized Yoon’s martial law declaration, said he had received intelligence that during the brief period of martial law Yoon ordered the country’s defense counterintelligence commander to arrest unspecified key politicians based on accusations of “anti-state activities.” Hong Jang-won, first deputy director of South Korea’s spy agency, told lawmakers Friday that Yoon had ordered him to help the defense counterintelligence unit to detain key politicians including Han, Lee and Woo. The Defense Ministry said Friday it suspended three military commanders including the head of the defense counterintelligence unit over their involvement in enforcing martial law. Vice Defense Minister Kim Seon Ho has told parliament that Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun ordered the deployment of troops to the National Assembly. Opposition parties accused Kim of recommending to Yoon to enforce martial law. Kim Yong Hyun resigned Thursday, and prosecutors imposed an overseas travel ban on him.Judge grants dismissal of election subversion case against Trump
Police are investigating a shooting where bullets hit a number of parked cars and a house in Pitt Meadows in the early morning hours of Sunday, Nov. 24. The Ridge Meadows RCMP say just after 4:30 a.m. officers responded to reports of shots fired in the 18800 block of 122nd Avenue, which is a residential neighbourhood. Responding officers found nobody was injured in the incident, however damage was located on "several" parked vehicles and a nearby residence. “We are thankful that nobody was injured in this early morning shooting that occurred in a residential area of Pitt Meadows,” said A/Sgt. Sunny Grewal with the Ridge Meadows Investigative Support Team. According to a social media report, a camera in the neighbourhood recorded about 10-11 shots from a firearm. The Ridge Meadows Investigative Support Team took conduct of the file, and attended the scene along with the Integrated Forensic Identification Section. “As this incident is still under investigation, we are asking for anyone who has information on this incident to please contact the police,” said Grewal. Police are seeking witnesses or persons who may have dash camera footage and/or surveillance video from the area. Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the Ridge Meadows RCMP at 604-463-6251 and quote file number 2024-23981. In 2021, a house on the same street suffered damage from bullet holes after an overnight shooting, but police reported at that time it was the wrong address that had been targeted.None