A federal appeals court rejected a bid to block the release of a portion of special counsel Jack Smith's final report detailing his investigation and prosecution of President-elect Trump's alleged 2020 election interference and alleged improper retention of classified records.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit denied the request from Walt Nauta, an aide to Trump, and Carlos de Oliveira, the former property manager at Mar-a-Lago, who were charged for their role in allegedly obstructing a separate federal investigation into Trump's handling of sensitive government records.
The 11th US Circuit Court of Appeals left a three-day hold on DOJ’s release of the report.
Smith was tapped by Garland in 2022 to investigate both the alleged effort by Trump and his allies to overturn the results of the 2020 election, as well as Trump's keeping of allegedly classified documents at his Florida residence.
Trump pleaded not guilty to all charges. Nauta and de Oliveira also pleaded not guilty to federal charges alleging they conspired to obstruct the FBI investigation into classified documents found at Mar-a-Lago.
Trudeau said there was not a "snowball's chance in hell" that would ever happen, but if it does, Trump says he recruited Wayne Gretzky to be its "governor."
"I was with Wayne Gretzky. I said, 'Wayne, would you like to be the governor of Canada?’ I can't imagine anybody doing better than Wayne," Trump said at Mar-a-Lago Thursday.
"Wayne was not too interested. But he probably would have liked statehood," Trump said. "He's a friend of mine. He's a great guy. He's the great one. We call him the great one, right? He's a great hockey player."
Gretzky attended a victory party for Trump's 2024 election win after Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris.
Gretzky's son-in-law, Dustin Johnson, plays on the LIV Golf tour, which has played tournaments at Trump's golf courses.
Trump said Canada should be a state during a news conference Tuesday in Palm Beach. On Monday, the president-elect said in a social media post "many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State."
"Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!" Trump exclaimed in his social media post.
Trudeau announced he intends to resign as party leader and prime minister after pressure from within his own Liberal Party increasingly grew amid heightened criticisms over his handling of the economy and threats levied by Trump. He said he will resign once the party selects a new leader.
Trudeau, who led the nation nearly a decade, has been grappling for months with significant drops in his approval ratings over mounting frustration relating to issues like the soaring cost of living and rising inflation.
Fox News Digital’s Paul Steinhauser, Caitlin McFall and Danielle Wallace contributed to this report.
The two starting catchers in the World Series — Will Smith of the Dodgers and Austin Wells of the Yankees — made the Top 10; where do they rank on the list?
Alec Baldwin isn't on trial for the fatal shooting of Halyna Hutchins anymore, but he’s clearly still upset over getting prosecuted over the "Rust" shooting tragedy... ‘cause he's now suing the prosecutors and investigators involved in his…
Tens of thousands of people — including A-list celebrities — have evacuated following the ongoing Los Angeles wildfires, leading many to wonder how to help those in need.
“This is the moment to reach out to anyone who lives in Los Angeles, who you think might be in some sort of traumatic shock and grief about losing their homes and the devastation of their neighborhoods and communities and offer your hand, home and resources,” Jamie Lee Curtis wrote via Instagram on Thursday, January 9, alongside aerial images of the destruction in the area. “We are going to have to come together,as we may never have done before, in the City of Angels and help each other. AND WE WILL!”
The Oscar winner donated $1 million to a relief fund, but even those who can’t afford to donate a blockbuster-size paycheck can help.
While GoFundMe has created a centralized hub for all the fundraising pages for those affected by the wildfire, other organizations including the Salvation Army have sprang into action to provide aid.
Scroll down to see resources on how to help those affected by the wildfires:
Nonprofit organization World Central Kitchen is providing food and water to both residents and first aid responders. “Our teams have mobilized across the region to provide immediate relief in the form of sandwiches and water as we identify all areas of need,” the organization said in a statement.
How to Help Provide Shelter
JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images
Katie Couric and Lea Michele are among the many celebs that noted The American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles is providing emergency shelter, food, water, health and mental services to those impacted. The shelter is located at Westwood Recreation Center in Los Angeles.
“Wildfires can spread rapidly, and it is important to prepare now and have your car ready; do not wait until there is not enough time to grab your essentials,” the organization said in a statement.
The organization is accepting donations online, by calling (800) 733-2767 or texting REDCROSS to 90999.
How to Help With Medical Care
DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images
Direct Relief is in communication with local health providers and emergency management teams.
“The organization is currently deploying medical aid, including emergency medical supplies for first responders and displaced residents, and respiratory protection equipment, including N95 respirators, to mitigate health risks from smoke exposure,” the organization wrote in a statement.
Camila Morrone encouraged Instagram followers “to help our LAFD firefighters” with the LA Fire Department Foundation’s Wildfire Emergency Fund. The organization is supporting local firefighters to finance emergency fire shelters, hydration backpacks and wildland brush tools.
The California Fire Foundation is also providing support to surviving firefighters and their families by commemorating firefighters who died, offering aid to victims of fire and scholarships to children of firefighters who died.
The CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation is also offering financial aid to firefighters and their families as well as supporting burn victims and their families.
How to Help Animals
AGUSTIN PAULLIER/AFP via Getty Images
Sophia Bush and Kylie Jenner both shared a post flagging several animal shelters, including the Pasadena Humane Society, which is helping to ensure pets are removed from the areas where wildfire is spreading and providing emergency services.
“If you are under evacuation orders, please take your pets with you. Prepare now. Pack a ‘go bag’ with your pet’s food (at least five days worth), water, dishes, toys, and any medications. Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with a current ID tag in case they get lost,” they said in a statement.
The organization will have Animal Control Officers onsite at the Pasadena Convention Center to help with animals. If in need of assistance, residents can call the animal control dispatch at 626-792-7151 ext. 970.
The American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles is providing a shelter for pets with Pierce College in Woodland Hills. Jessica Alba shared via Instagram that the Canine Rescue Club is also seeking volunteers for temporary foster care for dogs displaced by the wildfire.
The athleisure brand Set Active is accepting donations of clothing for those impacted by the fire through an Instagram Direct Message. Mandy Patinkin and Jesse Williams shared MutualAid LA’s information, which noted that The Anderson Munger Family YMCA and the Koreatown YMCA Center for Community Well-Being are also accepting donations of items including unopened food, clothing, blankets, emergency supplies and pet food.
Donations can be received at the Anderson Munger Family YMCA, 4301 W. 3rd St. in Los Angeles and at the Koreatown YMCA, 433 S. Vermont Ave. in Los Angeles.
Hailey Bieber shared via Instagram that Baby2Baby is also providing baby products for families affected by the fire, accepting donations online at their Disaster Relief and Emergency Response Program.
“Somebody had messaged me [while on vacation] that I was cut from the cruise. I had no idea,” Aydin, 47, exclusively told Us Weekly on Wednesday, January 8. “My manager didn’t want to tell me. She didn’t want anything to ruin my trip. Then I went to the website and I saw my name wasn’t there. And you know what? I took it like a champ.”
Aydin was expected to join her Real Housewives of New Jersey costars Teresa Giudice and Dolores Catania on a luxury cruise experience aboard the brand-new Norwegian Aqua in September 2025. Titled “Wives on the Waves,” the event would allow guests to vacation with some of their favorite Bravo stars.
A rep for the “Wives on the Waves” cruise confirmed to Us that Aydin would no longer be part of the event after she went viral for criticizing some Jersey Mike’s employees at one of the sandwich shop’s airport occasions.
“This decision was not personal nor an act of canceling anyone. At Fans at Sea, we believe in second chances and personal growth,” Patrick Harbison said in a statement. “Our priority is to create a drama-free, fun-filled experience for everyone. To ensure this, we made adjustments to keep the cruise enjoyable and welcoming for all guests.”
According to Aydin, she accepted the cruise’s decision and didn’t want to fight against the lost opportunity.
Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images
“This is a business and this is their business, and I do not want them to receive any backlash because of me,” she told Us. “The cruise was a fun idea for me because I love an opportunity to engage with the fans, but it’s all good. The timing wasn’t the most ideal for my family. The kids are going back to school that week and my kids were already complaining that I had committed to doing it. Everything happens for a reason.”
Jennifer and her husband, Dr. Bill Aydin, share five children including Justin, 20, Gabby, 17, Jacob, 15, Christian, 13, and Olivia, 11.
While Jennifer wishes she could cruise with her fans, “I understand that this is totally business and I respect the cruise’s decision.”
Her treatment of employees went viral — and caught the attention of Andy Cohen — with one worker posting a response in a TikTok video, referring to Jennifer as a “stupid bitch.” A GoFundMe page was also created for another employee featured in Jennifer’s videos.
While speaking with Us, Jennifer asserted that she “was not rude” to any of the food chain’s staff.
“I will call a spade a spade,” she said. “That staff was very highly dismissive, not just to me, to everybody on that line. Everybody was frustrated.”
At the same time, Jennifer admitted that she should not have posted any clips to her 549,000 Instagram followers.
“I’m one that takes full responsibility and accountability for my actions. When I feel I’m wrong, I should not have posted it,” she said. “I just want people to know that that was coming from a very frustrated mom who just wanted to make her flight with her children.”
President-elect Trump announced a series of Cabinet picks as his Jan. 20 inauguration nears and Senate confirmation begins.
Trump nominated former Fox News contributor Leo Terrell, a civil rights attorney, as senior counsel to the assistant attorney general for civil rights at the Department of Justice.
"He will work alongside Harmeet K. Dhillon, a fellow Californian, and our incredible Nominee for United States Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights in the Justice Department," Trump wrote. "Leo is a highly respected civil rights attorney and political analyst. He received his law degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, and has defended many high-profile cases throughout his incredibly successful career.
"Leo will be a fantastic advocate for the American People, and ensure we will, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!"
In an announcement Thursday evening, Trump revealed Christine Toretti as his pick for ambassador to Sweden. He said Toretti is an "incredible businesswoman, philanthropist, public servant, and RNC Committeewoman."
"She is Chairman of S&T Bancorp, and a former director of the Pittsburgh Federal Reserve Bank," Trump wrote. "Christine has been a tireless supporter of important causes as a Board Member of the International Medical Corps, former Chair of the Andy Warhol Museum, Director of the NCAA Foundation, founding Director of the Gettysburg Foundation, Trustee of the Sarah Scaife Foundation, and Chair of the Anne B. Anstine Excellence in Public Service Series in Pennsylvania, and the Dodie Londen Excellence in Public Service Series in Arizona.
"Christine is one of fewer than sixty women who have received the Athena International Global Award."
Trump also announced retired Army Capt. Sam Brown would serve as the next Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
"Sam is an American HERO, a Purple Heart recipient, and successful businessman from Nevada, who has devoted his life to serving America," Trump said in the announcement. "He fearlessly proved his love for our Country in the Army, while leading Troops in battle in Afghanistan and, after being honorably retired as a Captain, helping our Veterans get access to emergency medications.
"Sam will now continue his service to our Great Nation at the VA, where he will work tirelessly to ensure we put America’s Veterans FIRST, and remember ALL who served."
The nominations come as Trump continues to round out picks for his Cabinet as Jan. 20 nears.
The Republican-controlled U.S. Senate will soon begin holding hearings for Trump's Cabinet nominees.
Republicans will control the Senate with 53 seats to the Democrats' 47 once Senator-elect Jim Justice of West Virginia is sworn in later in January and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine appoints a senator to fill Vice President-elect Vance’s seat.
A federal appeals court has delayed Friday's scheduled military court hearing where suspected 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and two co-conspirators were expected to plead guilty as part of a deal negotiated with prosecutors.
The pause, though welcomed by the many who opposed the plea deals, prolongs a decades-long crusade for justice by the victims' families.
The plea deals, which would have three 9/11 terrorists avoid the death penalty and face life in prison, have drawn sharp outcry from the public and even prompted a dispute within the Biden administration to undo them.
On New Year’s Eve, a military appeals court shot down Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's effort to block the deal between military prosecutors and defense lawyers, saying Austin did not have the power to cancel plea agreements.
Specifically, the court opinion said the plea deals reached by military prosecutors and defense attorneys were valid and enforceable and that Austin exceeded his authority when he later tried to nullify them.
The defense now has until Jan. 17 to offer a full response to the Department of Justice's request to have the plea deals thrown out. Government prosecutors then have until Jan. 22 for a rebuttal, with possible oral arguments on the issue to follow.
The plea deals, offered to Mohammed and two co-conspirators, were meant as a way to wrap up the quest for justice to those who have been waiting more than two decades to see the terrorists that killed their loved ones convicted. They would allow prosecutors to avoid going to trial.
But why did the government settle for a plea deal after 23 years of building a case in the first place?
"I haven't spoken to a single person who thinks these plea deals were a good idea. Most people are horrified," said Brett Eagleson, president of 9/11 Justice.
"It's our thought that this was rescinded in name only and like it was done right before the election. So, Austin was trying to save any attempts at sort of a political loss on this," said Eagleson.
In its appeal this week, the government says, "Respondents are charged with perpetrating the most egregious criminal act on American soil in modern history — the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
"The military commission judge intends to enforce pretrial plea agreements that will deprive the government and the American people of a public trial as to the respondents’ guilt and the possibility of capital punishment, despite the fact that the Secretary of Defense has lawfully withdrawn those agreements," the appeal said. "The harm to the government and the public will be irreparable once the judge accepts the pleas, which he is scheduled to do in hearings beginning on January 10, 2025."
The appeal also noted that once the military commission accepts the guilty pleas, there is likely no way to return to the status quo.
Defense lawyers for the suspected 9/11 perpetrators argued Austin’s attempts to throw out the plea deals that his own military negotiated and approved were the latest developments in the "fitful" and "negligent" mishandling of the case that has dragged on for more than two decades.
If the plea deal is upheld, the architects of the attacks that killed 2,976, plus thousands more who died after inhaling toxic dust in rescue missions, will not be put to death for their crimes.
"You would think that the government has an opportunity to make right, and you would think that they would be salivating at the opportunity to bring us justice," Eagleson said. "Rather than doing that, they shroud everything in secrecy. They're rushing to get these plea deals done, and they're marching forward despite the objections of us.
"We want transparency. We want the discovery that's been produced. In this case, we want to know who are these guys they're talking to? On what grounds does our government think that these guys are guilty? Why can't they share that with us? It's been 23 years. You can't tell me that you need to protect national security sources and methods because, quite frankly, if we're using the same sources and methods that we were 23 years ago, we have bigger fish to fry."
The government opted to try five men in one case instead of each individually. Mohammed is accused of masterminding the plot and proposing it to Usama bin Laden. Two others allegedly helped the hijackers with finances.
In 2023, a medical panel concluded that Ramzi bin al-Shibh was not competent to stand trial and removed him from the case. Mohammed, Mustafa al-Hawsawi and Walid bin Attash, are all part of the plea agreement that will allow them to avoid the death penalty. One other will go to trial.
"The military commission has really been a failure," said John Ryan, a retired agent on the FBI's joint terrorism task force in New York.
Hundreds of people have been convicted of terrorism charges in the U.S. Ramzi Yousef, the perpetrator of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, was convicted in 1997.
But the military commission’s 9/11 case has faced a revolving door of judges, who then each take time to get up to speed with the 400,000 pages and exhibits in the case. Col. Matthew N. McCall of the Air Force, the fourth judge to preside over hearings in the case, intends to retire in the first quarter of 2025 before any trial begins.
McCall was assigned to the case in August 2021, and he held only two rounds of hearings before suspending the proceedings in March 2022 for plea negotiations. Another judge would have to get up to speed, and it could be another five to 10 years before a conviction, according to Ryan, who observed many of the hearings at Guantánamo.
"You have parents and grandparents [of victims] that now are in their 80s, you know, and want to see justice in their lifetime," he said.
"So, they would prefer to see the death penalty, but they’re sort of accepting the plea agreement here."
In the 23 years it’s taken to go to trial, critical witnesses have died, while others have waning memories of that fateful day.
For many years, the trial was delayed as the prosecution and the defense argued over whether some of the government’s best evidence, obtained under torture by the CIA, was permissible in court. The defense argued their clients had been conditioned to say anything that would please interrogators under this practice.
Former Attorney General Eric Holder has blamed "political hacks" for preventing a U.S.-based trial and thereby leading to the plea deal.
Years of proceedings in the untested military commissions system have led to countless delays.
Holder in 2009 had wanted to try the men in the Manhattan court system and promised to seek the death penalty, but he faced swift opposition in Congress from lawmakers who opposed bringing the suspected terrorists onto U.S. soil.
In 2013, Holder claimed Mohammed and his co-conspirators would be sitting on "death row as we speak" if the case had gone through the federal court system as he proposed.
Ten years later, Attorney General William Barr also tried to bring the Guantánamo detainees to the U.S. for a trial in federal court in 2019. He wrote in his memoir that the military commission process had become a "hopeless mess."
"The military can’t seem to get out of its own way and complete the trial," Barr wrote. He, too, ran into opposition from Republicans in Congress and then-President Trump.
The game was moved "in the interest of public safety," the NFL said in a statement. "The decision was made in consultation with public officials, the participating clubs, and the NFLPA."
The game's time is still the same, kicking off at 8 p.m. ET.
The Rams had a scheduled off day Wednesday, though the Los Angeles Chargers, who share SoFi Stadium and head to Houston for a wild-card game Saturday, limited players’ time outside during practice due to poor air quality.
State Farm Stadium has played a similar role in the past. In 2003, the Dolphins and Chargers played in Glendale due to wildfires in San Diego. During the COVID season in 2020, the 49ers played three "home" games there.
Several active wildfires, including the Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire, have devastated communities in the Los Angeles area, including Pacific Palisades and Altadena. The fires have burned nearly 30,000 acres during a Santa Ana wind event, with at least 130,000 people in the area under evacuation orders. At least five people have been killed in the fires, and more than 1,000 buildings have been destroyed.
This week's wildfires brought new attention to the issue of insurers no longer taking on new policies or declining to renew previous policies in California communities at high risk of wildfires. And prominent entertainment figures called out the moves.
The Los Angeles Times noted the city has not had at least one-tenth of an inch of rain since May 5.
Fox News' Eric Revell and Scott Thompson contributed to this report.
Throughout the ongoing wildfires, California officials have relied on emergency alerts to communicate with citizens. This system is an important way for officials to communicate with citizens instantly across iPhone and Android devices.
On Thursday evening, however, a wildfire evacuation alert went out to everyone in Los Angeles – even though it was only meant for a subset of residents.
