Monday, January 13th, 2025 - LA wildfires; Trump & Menendez sentencing updates; NATO’s Trump-proofing; Job gains; Meta DEI cut

Today’s Headlines: Wildfires in Los Angeles have claimed 16 lives, damaged over 10,000 structures, and forced 100,000 residents to evacuate, with curfews and nearly 30 arrests aimed at curbing looting. Governor Newsom issued an executive order to fast-track rebuilding and extend price gouging protections. President-elect Trump received an unconditional discharge in his felony case, while DOJ Special Counsel Jack Smith resigned ahead of Trump’s inauguration as NATO shifted Poland’s air defenses to prepare for the upcoming Trump administration. European strategies. December job gains exceeded forecasts, lowering unemployment to 4.1% but possibly delaying Fed rate cuts. Meta ended its DEI programs following Supreme Court rulings, and prosecutors recommended 15 years for Senator Bob Menendez after his bribery conviction. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: LA Times: Live updates: Winds prolong fire risk as investigators probe electric tower as possible origin of Eaton fire CBS NEws: 29 arrested in Los Angeles-area fire zones, including burglary suspect "dressed like a fireman," sheriff says Gov Newsom: Governor Newsom signs executive order to help Los Angeles rebuild faster and stronger AP News: Trump can still vote after sentencing, but can't own a gun and will have to turn over DNA sample NBC News: Special counsel Jack Smith resigns CNN: NATO takes control from US of air defenses in Poland crucial to supporting Ukraine days before Trump takes office Reuters: Strong US job growth raises doubts about further Fed rate cuts Axios: Read: Meta's memo to employees rolling back DEI programs NY Times: Prosecutors Seek 15-Year Sentence for Menendez’s Bribery Conviction Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices