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Key Headlines Today
Increased Federal Presence in Minnesota – Following the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has decided to send additional federal agents to Minnesota. This move comes amidst ongoing protests across the country. U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar is among those challenging the Department of Homeland Security’s decision, calling for a thorough investigation into Good’s death. Changes in policy now require elected officials to give a seven-day notice before visiting ICE facilities.
A protester in an inflatable frog suit holds a sign during a demonstration in Los Angeles against US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following the shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis.
Etienne Laurent/AFP via Getty Images
- 🎧 Minneapolis on Edge – NPR’s Jason DeRose reports that tensions are palpable in Minneapolis, with sirens and helicopters frequently heard, heightening community anxiety. Despite the fear, there is a strong sense of solidarity among residents. Hundreds gathered for a march at a local church, offering support while singing and observing moments of silence at recent ICE detention sites. DeRose will be monitoring the activities of the new federal agents and community reactions closely.
Trump’s Stance on Iran – President Trump remains open to military action against Iran, even as reports emerge that Tehran has expressed interest in negotiating. The backdrop to this development includes significant anti-government protests in Iran, with approximately 500 protester deaths reported by the Human Rights Activists News Agency.
- 🎧 Potential U.S. Strikes – The U.S.’s ability to impact Iranian missile sites might be influencing Iran’s approach to negotiations, according to Middle East economics expert Nader Habibi. Iran has warned it would target U.S. military installations if it anticipates an attack, especially as the nation deals with vulnerabilities from a recent conflict with Israel.
Pressure on the Federal Reserve – The Trump administration continues to press the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates. The Justice Department recently issued a subpoena to Fed Chairman Jerome Powell, seeking insights into his Senate Banking Committee testimony from June 2025.
- 🎧 Fed’s Independence Under Scrutiny – Powell, in a rare confrontational statement, suggested the DOJ’s investigation transcends concerns over headquarters renovation costs. Despite presidential pressure for lower rates and prior threats to remove Powell, the Fed’s design aims to shield it from political influence to prioritize long-term economic stability.
U.S. Figure Skating Team Looks Strong – Team USA is preparing to send its most formidable figure skating team to the Winter Olympics in years. Sixteen athletes will compete in various categories, showcasing a mix of world champions and promising newcomers. Learn more about the skaters set to compete.
- đź“· Capturing the Spirit of Competition – NPR’s Brian Munoz attended the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, developing a deep appreciation for the sport. View his photographs of the athletes as they vie for Olympic roster spots.
Health Insights
Living Better is a special series about what it takes to stay healthy in America.
While discussions around women’s health issues like breast cancer and menopause are gaining traction, there is a risk of oversimplification and misinformation. As individuals pursue their New Year’s health objectives, experts clarify some common misconceptions to be aware of.
- đź©ş Regular mammograms are crucial, but they should be part of a broader strategy to assess breast cancer risk. Consider a personalized screening plan.
- đź©ş While strength training is beneficial, it shouldn’t replace aerobic exercises, especially in midlife. Cardiovascular workouts remain essential.
- đź©ş Timing workouts with menstrual cycles doesn’t necessarily enhance performance. There’s no conclusive evidence of significant variations in strength or endurance related to cycle phases.
Red Carpet Moments
Ariana Grande arrives at the 83rd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)
Jordan Strauss/Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP/AP
Stars like Ariana Grande, Noah Wyle, Teyana Taylor, and George Clooney graced the red carpet at the 83rd Golden Globes in Beverly Hills. NPR’s Michel Martin, Steve Inskeep, Leila Fadel, and A MartĂnez were among the attendees, showcasing stunning fashion choices.
➡️ Missed the ceremony? Catch up on all the Golden Globes winners.
Before You Leave
A photograph of President Trump and a short plaque next to it are on display at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery’s “American Presidents” exhibit on Sunday.
Rod Lamkey/AP
- The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C., has removed references to Trump’s impeachments from the wall text accompanying his new portrait.
- The Washington National Opera is departing the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts due to new policies impacting its financial operations.
- Bob Weir, a founding member of the Grateful Dead, passed away at 78.
This newsletter was edited by Suzanne Nuyen.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
