Friday Scoop: Mattis Resignation
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The big story…
Defense Secretary Jim Mattis Resigns Over Withdrawal of Troops From Syria
Jim Mattis, the U.S. Secretary of Defense, has resigned in protest following President Trump’s decision to withdraw troops from Syria. Mattis apparently made one last visit to the White House to attempt to dissuade the president and handed over his resignation letter when the issue was not resolved. Mattis was a well-respected and stable figure in the Trump administration, leading to bipartisan shock over his departure.
In politics…
Possibility of Partial Government Shutdown Still Looms
Although it was expected that Congress would pass a short-term funding bill to prevent a partial government shutdown, Congressional conflict has returned as President Trump puts the pressure on representatives to add $5 billion to the bill for funding a U.S.-Mexico border wall. The bill has been passed by the House but is predicted to be rejected by the Senate, which will mean a partial government shutdown starting at midnight tonight.
In #MeToo…
Court Sets Date for Harvey Weinstein Trial
Harvey Weinstein’s court case is officially going to trial with a pretrial hearing set for March 7.
In transportation…
Gatwick Airport Reopens Following Suspicious Drone Activity
Gatwick Airport has reopened, but the investigation into the drones spotted above the airport causing the shutdown continues. Airlines have cancelled 155 flights total, leaving hundreds of thousands of passengers stranded right before the holidays.
In discrimination…
Planned Parenthood Faces Allegations of Discrimination Against Pregnant Employees
Workplace discrimination against pregnant women and mothers is nothing new — apparently not even at Planned Parenthood. The organization is currently facing complaints of discrimination, including not allowing pregnant employees to take doctor recommended breaks and refusing to hire pregnant applicants.
In music…
Fake Beyonce Albums Released in Unauthorized Leak
Yesterday, 20 new tracks by “Queen Carter” were posted to Spotify and Apple Music. The songs were a combination of new and old Beyoncé content and were quickly removed from the platforms.
In the Netherlands…
Dutch Government Encourages Residents to Bike
The Netherlands is devoting $390 million dollars to develop a cycling infrastructure including “cycling freeways” to encourage residents to travel primarily via bike. The Dutch government is also promoting $.22 tax credits per kilometer for those who cycle to work.
In film…
Disney Faces Pressure Over ‘Hakuna Matata’ Trademark
An online petition with more than 120,000 signatures and counting says that Disney should not be allowed to trademark the Swahili phrase “Hakuna Matata.” The petition claims that the trademark is nothing short of cultural appropriation.
Trending today…
Ankle Scarves
AKA socks but worse. (P.S. Check out other trending topics of the week.)
Last but not least…
Most Anticipated Albums of 2019 – Alternative Genres
With the uncertainty of a new year creeping upon us, you’d be forgiven for carrying a bit of anxiety into the holiday season. Well fear not as we’re here to give you a few reasons to look forward to 2019. Read more about next year’s most anticipated albums in Cody Ayres’ report for CMN.
Today’s Morning Scoop was made possible by Cody Ayres and the CMN Staff. Today is the winter solstice — AKA the shortest day of the year. Be sure to get some sunlight while you can, and don’t miss tonight’s full moon and meteor shower!
