International attention turns to Caracas following the reported capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
U.S. forces have detained Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro
U.S. forces have detained Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife following a targeted operation in Caracas, according to confirmation from President Donald Trump. The operation reportedly involved coordinated air and ground tactics and resulted in Maduro being taken into U.S. custody.
U.S. officials say Maduro will face longstanding federal charges in New York related to alleged drug trafficking and connections to the Cartel de los Soles, accusations that have been pending for years.
The action comes in the aftermath of Venezuela’s 2024 presidential election, where independent vote tallies indicated a decisive victory for opposition candidate Edmundo González. The United States subsequently recognized González as the legitimate winner, rejecting Maduro’s claim to power.
Prominent opposition leader María Corina Machado described the moment as a turning point for the country, calling it Venezuela’s “hour of freedom.” Within the country, reactions were mixed—some citizens reportedly celebrated the development, while others expressed concern over foreign military involvement. International response has also been divided, with some governments questioning the legality and broader implications of the intervention.
Ohio lawmakers continue discussions on the state capital budget.
Ohio legislators prepare to resume discussions on the state capital budget in the new legislative session.
Ohio Capital Budget: What Lawmakers Are Deciding
Ohio lawmakers have yet to formally begin drafting the state’s next capital budget, leaving communities across the state waiting for clarity on major infrastructure and development funding. As legislators adjourned for the December holiday recess, discussions around the capital budget were still ongoing, with no official timeline announced.
Senate President Rob McColley (R-Napoleon) expressed optimism that progress could be made in the coming year, noting that conversations are expected to resume when lawmakers return in January.
Unlike Ohio’s operating budget which covers the day-to-day expenses of state government, the capital budget focuses on long-term investments. It allocates state-bonded funding to community projects such as highways, public schools, parks, recreation facilities, and local government infrastructure throughout Ohio.
Political dynamics may accelerate the process. Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio (D-Lakewood) pointed out that capital budgets are commonly passed during election years, when legislators are eager to demonstrate tangible results to voters.
Once approved, the capital budget allows lawmakers seeking re-election to highlight investments made in their districts, reinforcing the legislature’s commitment to local communities across the state.
Despite the lack of concrete decisions so far, Antonio remains confident that a capital budget will be passed this year, emphasizing that while discussions continue behind the scenes, leadership has not yet finalized the details.
The SBA has suspended nearly 7,000 Minnesota borrowers after reviewing suspected fraudulent PPP and EIDL loans totaling $400 million, officials say.
SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler says thousands of pandemic-era loans are under investigation for potential fraud.
SBA Suspends nearly 7,000 Minnesota borrowers
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has suspended thousands of borrowers in Minnesota following a large-scale review of pandemic-era relief loans, according to a statement shared on X by Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the SBA.
Over the last week, SBA has reviewed thousands of potentially fraudulent pandemic-era PPP and EIDL loans approved in Minnesota.
Today, our agency took action to suspend 6,900 Minnesota borrowers amid suspected fraudulent activity. In total, these borrowers were approved for…
Loeffler said the agency examined thousands of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) applications approved during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of the review, the SBA has suspended 6,900 borrowers amid concerns of potential fraudulent activity.
In total, the affected borrowers were approved for approximately 7,900 loans valued at nearly $400 million, according to the SBA. Loeffler stated that all individuals involved will be permanently barred from future SBA loan programs, including disaster assistance loans.
The SBA also plans to refer qualifying cases to federal law enforcement for potential prosecution and recovery of funds. Loeffler described the action as part of a broader effort to hold accountable those who misused taxpayer-funded relief programs.
“After years, the American people will finally begin to see accountability for those who took advantage of emergency programs meant to support small businesses,” Loeffler wrote, adding that Minnesota is only the first state impacted by the ongoing review process.
The announcement signals increased federal scrutiny of pandemic-era lending programs, which distributed hundreds of billions of dollars nationwide to help businesses survive economic disruptions caused by COVID-19.
Jon Husted and Sherrod Brown in Ohio U.S. Senate race 2026
Jon Husted and Sherrod Brown set the stage for a closely watched Ohio U.S. Senate race in 2026.
Ohio Senate Race 2026: What’s at Stake
Ohio voters are preparing for a consequential U.S. Senate special election, as Republican Senator Jon Husted moves to retain the seat he was appointed to, while Democrat Sherrod Brown seeks a return after his 2024 defeat.
Husted officially entered the race on December 12, marking his first statewide Senate campaign. He has served in the Senate since January 2025, following his appointment by Governor Mike DeWine to replace J.D. Vance, who resigned after becoming vice president following President Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory.
State law requires Husted to stand for election in 2026 to finish the remainder of Vance’s term, which expires in 2028. The winner of this year’s race will need to run again in 2028 to secure a full six-year term.
Brown, a longtime Democratic figure in Ohio politics, announced in August that he plans to mount a political comeback. Although he had not formally filed as of January 1, the former senator who served three terms is widely expected to be the Democratic nominee. Brown narrowly lost reelection in 2024 to Republican Bernie Moreno in one of the most expensive Senate races in U.S. history.
The matchup highlights Ohio’s evolving political landscape. While the state has leaned Republican in recent presidential elections supporting Trump in both 2020 and 2024—statewide races remain competitive. Republicans currently control every statewide executive office.
Brown has said he initially intended to step away from politics but reconsidered as debates over the economy, healthcare costs, wages, and trade intensified. He argues Ohio needs stronger Senate representation for workers and middle-class families.
Husted has moved swiftly to unify Republican support. He launched his campaign early and secured a high-profile endorsement from Trump, along with backing from national conservative organizations. A veteran of Ohio politics for more than two decades, Husted has previously served as lieutenant governor, secretary of state, and speaker of the Ohio House.
Campaign finance reports show both candidates entering the race with significant resources. Brown raised approximately $8 million, largely through small-dollar donations, while Husted reported $3.7 million in a single quarter, which his campaign described as a record-setting amount for a Republican Senate candidate in Ohio at that stage.
Recent polling indicates a tight race. An October Bowling Green State University survey found the candidates essentially tied, with Brown holding a slim 49% to 48% lead, well within the margin of error.
While several lesser-known candidates have entered the Democratic primary, Brown remains the clear frontrunner. A candidate from the Party for Socialism and Liberation has also declared. On the Republican side, no major challenger has emerged against Husted.
2 people were shot at a New Year’s Eve event on South Hamilton Road in Columbus. Police are investigating and no suspect has been identified.
Columbus police investigate a shooting reported at a New Year’s Eve event on South Hamilton Road early Thursday morning.
2 Shot at New Year’s Eve Party on South Hamilton Road in Columbus
Two individuals were injured in a shooting that occurred during a New Year’s Eve gathering on South Hamilton Road in Columbus early Thursday morning, according to local authorities.
Columbus police responded to reports of gunfire at a property located at 2300 South Hamilton Road shortly before 1:00 a.m. Upon arrival, officers confirmed that two people had been shot. One victim was listed in critical condition but is expected to survive, while the second victim was reported to be in stable condition.
Investigators stated that the incident took place inside a warehouse venue that had been rented for a New Year’s Eve celebration. The event had been promoted online as a major New Year’s party.
As of Thursday morning, police have not released information about a suspect, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine outlines fraud prevention measures as lawmakers call for closer review of publicly funded child care centers in Columbus and statewide.
Governor Mike DeWine addresses safeguards and oversight measures for Ohio’s publicly funded child care programs.
Governor Mike DeWine Addresses Child Care Fraud Concerns
As scrutiny increases around alleged fraud at publicly funded child care centers in the Columbus region, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has highlighted the safeguards the state uses to monitor and prevent misuse of taxpayer dollars.
In an official statement, the governor’s office explained that Ohio operates nearly 5,200 state-funded child care facilities, acknowledging that while oversight systems are in place, the scale of the program means the risk of fraud cannot be entirely eliminated. DeWine noted that Ohio continuously reviews its processes to protect public funds while ensuring families retain access to essential child care services.
The statement followed a letter signed by dozens of Ohio lawmakers urging the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) to further examine publicly funded child care programs statewide. Lawmakers’ concerns intensified after high-profile fraud allegations involving child care centers in Minnesota drew national attention.
Earlier this week, President Donald Trump’s administration announced a freeze on federal child care funding to Minnesota, citing repeated fraud schemes uncovered in recent years. Governor DeWine said the situation has understandably raised concerns among Ohio residents about how similar programs are monitored locally.
According to the governor’s office, Ohio verifies attendance through secure PIN systems with photo confirmation, as payments are issued based on daily attendance rather than enrollment. While the Biden administration had required states to transition to enrollment-based payments by August 2026, Ohio did not adopt that model, and the Trump administration is now reviewing the federal mandate.
On Wednesday, the Trump administration expanded its response by temporarily freezing federal child care funding nationwide, requiring all states to submit additional verification to ensure program integrity.
Ohio’s child care oversight process includes unannounced inspections, financial audits, and advanced data analytics designed to detect fraud, waste, and misuse of funds. DCY also operates a public tip line allowing residents to report suspected wrongdoing.
State officials report that more than half of fraud referrals received in 2025 resulted in recovered funds and the closure of 12 child care programs. A DCY spokesperson stated that the department has prioritized stronger accountability, improved oversight, and responsible management of public resources, while balancing accessibility for compliant providers and families.
The department emphasized that fraud prevention efforts began well before recent headlines, relying on routine monitoring, data review, and surprise site visits. When fraud is suspected, DCY responds swiftly by dispatching investigators to review attendance records, employment documentation, and safety compliance, taking immediate action when violations are confirmed.
The renewed focus follows a viral social media video by influencer Nick Shirley, who alleged large-scale fraud at publicly funded day care centers in Minneapolis. Federal authorities in Minnesota are currently investigating multiple schemes related to child care, nutrition, housing, and autism programs.
While Minnesota has the largest Somali immigrant population in the U.S., and Columbus also hosts a significant Somali community, Ohio officials stressed that current investigations are not tied to any specific population group within Columbus.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has stopped federal child care payments to Minnesota after reports of empty centers and possible fraud.
Federal officials halt child care funding to Minnesota as fraud claims spark a national investigation and new safeguards.
Federal Child Care Funds Frozen in Minnesota Amid Fraud Claims | Columbus News
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has suspended federal child care funding to Minnesota following a controversial report that revealed numerous licensed centers were empty despite claiming care for hundreds of children. Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill stated that the pause will remain in effect while new safeguards are implemented nationwide and a comprehensive audit is ordered to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. A federal fraud hotline has also been established to receive tips.
We have frozen all child care payments to the state of Minnesota.
You have probably read the serious allegations that the state of Minnesota has funneled millions of taxpayer dollars to fraudulent daycares across Minnesota over the past decade.
Minnesota officials dispute the funding freeze, saying several facilities were temporarily closed due to licensing compliance issues and accusing federal leaders of politicizing essential child care support. The investigation comes as federal agents look into broader concerns about misuse of taxpayer dollars, including previous state issues such as the $250 million “Feeding Our Future” fraud case.
Ohio Lawmakers Weigh AI Regulations as Trump Executive Order Limits State Authority
Ohio legislators prepare to debate new artificial intelligence laws as federal policy limits state regulation.
Ohio Lawmakers Move to Regulate AI
Ohio lawmakers are preparing to take up a series of artificial intelligence–related bills when the General Assembly reconvenes in the new year, signaling growing concern over how rapidly advancing AI technology should be governed.
The Ohio House Technology and Innovation Committee is expected to review proposed legislation that would prohibit granting legal personhood to artificial intelligence, ban certain AI-generated deepfake videos, and impose penalties on companies that design AI systems that promote harmful behavior.
These discussions will take place amid increasing federal involvement. Earlier this month, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at limiting the ability of individual states to regulate artificial intelligence independently. The order argues that allowing each state to craft its own AI rules could create inconsistent regulatory frameworks that make compliance especially difficult for start-ups and emerging technology companies.
Representative Thad Claggett, a Republican from Licking County and chair of the House Technology and Innovation Committee, said he understands the reasoning behind the executive order but emphasized that Ohio lawmakers will continue their work.
“Our goal is to make sure Ohio becomes a place where the best technology ideas can grow,” Claggett said, adding that the committee does not intend to pause its legislative efforts.
Claggett described artificial intelligence as one of the most transformative—and potentially dangerous—technologies in modern history, likening its rapid adoption to the geopolitical arms race of the Cold War. While he acknowledged the federal government’s desire to maintain a competitive edge, he noted that AI presents unique risks due to its widespread and subtle influence.
According to Claggett, the President would prefer Congress to establish a single national AI policy, an approach he supports in principle. However, he expressed skepticism about Congress’s ability to act quickly enough, prompting Ohio lawmakers to move forward at the state level.
One of the committee’s priorities is clarifying in law that artificial intelligence is not sentient and cannot be recognized as a legal person. Claggett said AI’s ability to simulate human behavior makes this distinction critical to prevent deception and ensure accountability remains with people—not machines.
Another proposal would hold companies accountable if they create AI systems that offer harmful guidance, particularly in sensitive areas such as health or wellness. Claggett stressed that technology providing advice in these fields should be held to ethical standards similar to those applied to human professionals.
The committee is also expected to examine legislation that would prohibit nonconsensual AI-generated deepfake videos that replicate an individual’s appearance or voice. While Claggett supports banning such content, he cautioned lawmakers to strike a balance between enforcement and protecting civil liberties.
In addition to artificial intelligence, the House Technology and Innovation Committee will explore issues related to cryptocurrency and cybersecurity for local governments when hearings resume in February.
A Columbus nonprofit is delivering food and household essentials to immigrant families sheltering in place amid ongoing immigration enforcement concerns in Central Ohio.
Columbus Nonprofit Delivers Food to Immigrant Families Amid ICE Operation
Recent immigration enforcement activity in Columbus is significantly impacting the daily lives of immigrant families across Central Ohio. Many residents say fear and uncertainty have made it difficult to leave their homes even for essential needs like groceries. In response, a local nonprofit is stepping up to ensure vulnerable families are not left without basic necessities.
Our Helpers, a woman-led nonprofit serving immigrant and refugee communities in Franklin County, has launched emergency food and supply deliveries for families choosing to shelter in place amid concerns tied to ICE’s reported “Operation Buckeye.”
“Our doors are open to everyone,” said Our Helpers CEO Dorothy Hassan. “We are committed to protecting and supporting the people we serve, and we won’t stand by while fear disrupts their ability to live safely.”
Ordinarily, Our Helpers operates a community free store. However, following recent reports of immigration-related arrests in Central Ohio, the organization has shifted its operations to focus on home deliveries. The goal is to ensure families who feel unsafe traveling can still access food and household essentials.
The nonprofit relies entirely on community donations and volunteer support. Within the first week of the initiative, more than 100 food boxes were distributed, containing fresh produce and long-lasting pantry staples designed to help families prepare culturally familiar meals.
“These are items we know can stretch over time and support families in maintaining dignity and normalcy,” Hassan said.
Volunteers have been working seven days a week to meet the growing demand. Hassan says the response has already made a meaningful difference, with families reaching out to share how the support has helped during a difficult period.
Some families report staying home from work for extended periods, while others describe children translating fearful conversations for their parents. Beyond addressing food insecurity, Our Helpers is also exploring ways to support the emotional well-being of families coping with prolonged isolation.
“There were neighbors who couldn’t enjoy a beautiful day outside simply because they were afraid,” Hassan said. “We have a responsibility to look out for one another.”
Our Helpers continues to accept donations at its warehouse. Community members interested in contributing dry food staples or household items are encouraged to contact the organization through social media, where daily updates list the most urgent needs and drop-off details.
Ohio Sees 17 Traffic Deaths During Christmas Holiday, OSHP Reports
Ohio State Highway Patrol reported 17 traffic deaths during the Christmas holiday period.
17 Killed in Ohio Traffic Crashes During Christmas Holiday, OSHP Reports
Seventeen people lost their lives in traffic crashes across Ohio during the five-day Christmas holiday period, according to data released by the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP). The figure marks a significant increase compared to the same holiday timeframe last year.
OSHP reported 14 fatal crashes between 12:00 a.m. on December 24 and 11:59 p.m. on December 28. Two of those deadly incidents occurred in Delaware County and Franklin County, including a Christmas Eve crash on Columbus’ West Side.
In Delaware County, authorities confirmed that a teenager from Dublin was killed after failing to stop at a stop sign and being struck by another vehicle. The individual was pronounced dead at the scene.
Statewide data shows that four of the 17 victims were not wearing seat belts, three were pedestrians, and two fatalities involved impaired driving. During the same holiday enforcement period, Ohio troopers made 231 arrests for impaired driving, 35 drug-related arrests, and issued 288 seat belt citations along with 147 distracted driving citations.
The number of holiday fatalities represents a sharp rise from three deaths reported during Christmas last year, although the 2024 reporting period covered only two days. OSHP also noted that 11 people died during traffic crashes over the four-day Thanksgiving holiday in 2025.
Throughout the Christmas holiday travel period, troopers assisted 1,173 motorists on roadways across the state.
