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Yesterday, the Justice Department made headlines by releasing approximately 30,000 pages of new documents. These include flight logs, memos, and letters connected to the notorious financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The newly unveiled files feature hundreds of references to former President Donald Trump. According to NPR's Sarah McCammon, it is well-documented that Epstein had connections with numerous influential figures, including Trump and former President Bill Clinton. While Trump has not been accused of any illegal activity, the documents shed light on their relationship, prompting questions about Trump's awareness of Epstein's illicit actions. McCammon also notes the uncertainty surrounding the authenticity of some documents.
On social media, the Department of Justice has labeled one specific file—a letter from Epstein to convicted sex offender Larry Nassar—as fraudulent.
In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court decided that National Guard troops must remain out of Chicago—at least for the time being. This decision is part of a series of emergency cases where the conservative majority court has ruled against Trump since the outset of his second term. The justices voted 6-3, stating that the president did not adequately justify why the circumstances in Chicago warranted an exception to the Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts military enforcement of laws on U.S. soil. NPR's Kat Lonsdorf explains that since this ruling emerged from an emergency decision, it does not set a legal precedent. It pertains solely to this specific case in Illinois and does not affect troop deployments in other locations. However, ongoing litigation concerning deployments in other cities may look to this emergency ruling for guidance.
In economic news, the U.S. economy experienced growth that surpassed economists' expectations from July through September, according to a recently delayed report from the Commerce Department regarding the nation's gross domestic product (GDP). This report, typically released in October, was postponed due to the recent government shutdown. NPR's Alina Selyukh highlights two main drivers behind this unexpected growth: increased spending on artificial intelligence and other technologies, alongside what Selyukh describes as the "perpetual motion machine" that is the American consumer. Despite growing concerns about financial stability, recent polls indicate that Americans are continuing to spend. However, a new report from the Conference Board reveals that consumer confidence has declined for the fifth consecutive month as citizens express worries about inflation, the political climate, and the labor market.
As we approach the holiday season, Christmas brings about a blend of joy, anticipation, and a deep sense of yearning. This emotional undercurrent is present in beloved holiday classics such as Mariah Carey's "All I Want For Christmas Is You" and Judy Garland's rendition of "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas." Slate music critic Carl Wilson shares insights with Morning Edition on why the holiday invokes such feelings of longing and discusses the enduring appeal of these songs. Don't miss this opportunity to listen and gather inspiration for your Christmas playlist!
As 2025 draws to a close, NPR photojournalists are showcasing a collection of images that encapsulated the year's most significant events. These photographs not only highlight major headlines but also capture intimate, powerful human experiences across the United States. This collection serves as a reminder that journalism plays a crucial role in documenting factual events while also conveying the emotional narratives from the diverse places we call home. Take a moment to explore some of the images that resonated with the photographers this year.
1. Today, the term yule may evoke cozy Christmas cheer, but its origins lie in wild celebrations and animal sacrifices. Discover the pagan roots of Yule festivals in this week's Word of the Week.
2. The historic Middle Collegiate Church in New York City will hold its first Christmas Eve service tonight, following the destruction caused by a six-alarm fire in 2020. The church successfully reopened on Easter this year.
3. At the Ground Zero Hurricane Katrina museum in Waveland, Mississippi, an exhibit featuring letters written to Santa in the aftermath of the storm tells powerful stories of resilience and recovery, as reported by New Orleans Public Radio.