President Trump unveiled a $12 billion aid package for American farmers on Monday. According to the White House, the plan demonstrates Trump’s “commitment to helping our farmers, who will have the support they need.” The package includes $11 billion in direct payments through the USDA’s Farmer Bridge Assistance initiative and $1 billion for other commodities. (Story URL)
New York City has matched its record for the longest time without a homicide. The city went 12 straight days, from November 25 to December 7, without a killing. That streak equals a record first set in 2015. The stretch ended Sunday night when a 38-year-old man was fatally shot in the Bronx. November also tied the record for the lowest monthly murder total, with 16 killings, matching 2018. (Story URL)
Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas), filed paperwork Monday to run for the U.S. Senate, upending the Democratic primary ahead of the filing deadline. Crockett, a two-term congresswoman from Dallas, will challenge GOP Sen. John Cornyn, who faces several primary opponents. Democrats view the race as a possible statewide breakthrough after more than 30 years of losses. (Story URL)
The Supreme Court appeared ready Monday to let President Trump dismiss some independent agency officials without cause. The case, Trump v. Slaughter, challenges a 1935 ruling that limits presidential removal powers. Trump fired Federal Trade Commission member Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, arguing those limits violate the Constitution’s separation of powers. (Story URL)
Pennsylvania police say bullets discovered in Luigi Mangione’s backpack led them to identify him as the suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. An officer testified Monday that she found a loaded gun magazine wrapped in underwear after Mangione’s Dec. 9, 2024, arrest at a McDonald’s. His defense argues the search was illegal because police lacked a warrant. (Story URL)