Ohio’s Senator, James David Vance has resigned from the U.S. Senate, effective January 10, 2025, in preparation for his inauguration as Vice President alongside President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, 2025.Donald Trump and Senator J.D Vance won the U.S. election on November 5th, 2024, against Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
Senator J.D Vance reflects on his service in the Senate to the people of Ohio
“As I prepare to take on the role of Vice President of the United States, I want to convey that it has been an immense honor and privilege to serve the people of Ohio in the Senate for the past two years,” Vance stated in his resignation letter to Governor Mike DeWine.
Governor DeWine is now responsible for the appointment of a temporary replacement to occupy Vance’s Senate seat. The appointee will serve until a special election is held in November 2026 to complete the remainder of Vance’s term, which runs through January 2029.
Vance’s resignation marks the commencement of his transition from the legislative branch to the executive branch, where he will assume the role of the 50th Vice President of the United States.
J.D Vance’s Rise to Fame
Senator J.D Vance first came into the national spotlight in 2016 with the publishing of his best-selling memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis.” The book, which dives into Vance’s upbringing in a working-class Appalachian family as well as the region’s hardships, received vast recognition and had a significant impact on discussions about class, culture, and politics in America.
His rise to political prominence followed in 2022 when he ran for U.S. Senate in Ohio, securing the Republican nomination and eventually winning the seat in the November 2022 election. His victory in the Senate race further elevated his profile, as he became known for his outspoken views on social and economic issues, positioning himself as a key figure in American politics.
Vance’s transition from an author to a politician, has been marked by his strong views on issues like immigration, the economy, and American culture.
The hearing on a law that could lead to a TikTok ban in the U.S. will take place Friday morning before the Supreme Court. The law, which passed through Congress and was signed by President Biden, is set to take effect on January 19, 2025. Today’s hearing seeks to request a delay in the law’s implementation or a ruling to overrule it.
Law Provisions and Implementation Timeline
The law stipulates that TikTok must sever its ties with its China-based parent company, ByteDance, in order to remain operational in the U.S. It also states that the sitting president can pause the implementation of the law for up to three months if a sale transaction is underway.
First Amendment and National Security Debate
The case focuses on the conflict between the First Amendment’s right to free speech and lawmakers’ concerns that TikTok poses a threat to national security. The Supreme Court is handling the case as a matter of urgency, just 48 hours after the company filed for intervention. The court will hear the case and determine whether the law targeting TikTok contradicts the First Amendment.
In April 2024, Congress passed the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, which was included in the foreign affairs package. The law prohibits third-party service providers, such as Google and Apple, from “distributing, maintaining, or updating” apps controlled by foreign companies by making them available for download in their app stores.
Impact on TikTok and Related Applications
ByteDance, TikTok, and related companies are classified as “foreign adversary-controlled applications” under this law. The law also targets any other apps operated by foreign adversaries, such as China, Russia, North Korea, or Iran.
If the law is enacted on January 19, 2025, TikTok will become inoperable after 270 days. Users will no longer be able to post on the platform or download the app.
The central issue presented to the Supreme Court is the U.S. government’s claim that TikTok collects vast amounts of personal data from users, which could be exploited by the Chinese government for “spying or coercion” or to escalate political turmoil by spreading false information to “advance their global political interests.”
According to a statement from the Justice Department, “Congress’ intent is to curb foreign adversary control, not to limit freedom of speech, restrict viewpoints, or control the content shared on TikTok
This move would silence more than 170 million American users and could violate the First Amendment, according to the lawyers. TikTok’s parent company has confirmed that the app is not for sale, even though such a sale could provide a reprieve and allow the platform to continue operating in the U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is opposed to shutting down the popular app.
The law allows Trump to grant a 90-day grace period before implementation if there is evidence that the parent company has made progress with the transfer of ownership. He can also instruct the Justice Department not to enforce the law.
President-elect Donald Trump has been sentenced to unconditional discharge following his conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records related to hush money payments made during his 2016 presidential campaign. This approach allows the legal process to conclude without hindering Trump’s upcoming inauguration on January 20, 2025.
During the proceedings overseen by Judge Juan Merchan, New York prosecutors accused President-elect Donald Trump of undermining the rule of law by targeting the judge and others involved in the case.
Judge Juan Merchan has described the unconditional discharge as the “only lawful sentence,” emphasizing on the change in Trump’s legal status.
“Never has the court ever encountered a case with such a unique and remarkable set of circumstances, it has truly been an extraordinary case” Merchan stated.
McDonald’s has set off the New Year with an irresistible package offer for its budget conscious market segment through the launch of its new McValue menu, earlier this week.
McDonald’s New McValue Menu Key Insights:
The new McValue menu, provides a variety of budget-friendly meal options. The pricing begins from as low as $5 for a meal and has been available in their restaurants since mid-last year.
The deal features a choice of either a McDouble burger or McChicken sandwich, four Chicken McNuggets, a small order of fries, and a small soda. There is also an offer of ‘buy one and get an extra item at the cost of $1’throughout the days from breakfast to dinner meals.
If one pays the full price for a meal in the McValue menu, they can add any items at the cost of $1. For instance, they have an on-running promotion where customers get free medium fries for every purchase they make.
Popular McDonald’s foods such sandwiches, nuggets and burgers are included in this menu. Customers will receive the offers in the new menu real time through mobile app promotions, informing them of the irresistible offers of foods and drinks available in all their restaurants.
Today, the world bid farewell to a man who will forever remain etched in the history of the United States of America as the 39th President Jimmy Carter. He will be honored with state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral. He became U.S. president back in 1977 having won the office as the Democratic nominee by defeating incumbent Republican President Gerald Ford in the December 1976 election.
The cathedral began filling early this morning as mourners took their seats. Among them were various dignitaries and government officials gathered to celebrate the life of the former president, who passed away at the age of 100. He remains the longest-living former president in U.S. history.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were President Joe Biden, along with president-elect Donald Trump. Former President Barack Obama, George Bush, and Bill Clinton were also present. At the family’s request, President Biden delivered the eulogy for Carter. This marks a rare occasion, as the last time all former heads of state, including Donald Trump, gathered for an event was at the funeral of George H.W. Bush in December 2018. Since then, this will be the first time all four leaders have met in a one-on-one setting.
To pay tribute to Carter, President Biden proclaimed today a National Day of Mourning, with all flags being flown at half-mast in remembrance of the former president.
Jimmy Carter’s casket arrived at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday for a military tribute. A series of memorial services were held at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta and in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. Politicians and the public were invited to pay their respects ahead of today’s funeral. Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, joined the crowd to honor the life of the former president.
After today’s state funeral, the body will be returned to Georgia for a private ceremony and laid to rest in his final resting place in Plains.
Early Life and Family of Jimmy Carter
Carter was born in Georgia on October 1, 1924, and had three siblings. His father was a farmer, and his mother a shopkeeper. His parents named him James Earl Carter Jr. He graduated from the U.S. Navy in 1946 and briefly worked in a nuclear submarine program before quitting to run the family farm.
This is the same year he married his wife, Rosalynn, with whom he remained married for 75 years until her passing in 2023. Together, they had three sons and a daughter.
Jimmy Carter’s Presidency and Legacy
Carter served one term in office and was actively involved in resolving the Middle East crisis between Israel and Egypt. However, his presidency was not without challenges, particularly due to the poor economic situation. He faced growing unpopularity during his term, and the Iran hostage crisis became the final blow, making his last year in office especially difficult.
In an ironic turn of events, Carter became one of the most beloved former presidents after leaving office. In 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian efforts. Following his White House years, he dedicated himself to charity work. In his final days, he spent time in hospice care due to old age and declining health.
Today, January 8, 2025, Shafi Shafat, President of the Somali American Chamber of Commerce, had a highly productive meeting with Ronald C. Todd II, Chief of Social Impact and Opportunity for the Ohio Department of Development. Ronald is a strategic leader dedicated to driving positive social change and fostering opportunities for growth throughout Ohio. With a diverse background in serving as the Minority Affairs Liaison for Governor Mike DeWine and as a Senior Advisor/Consultant to the Ohio Secretary of State’s Office, Jon Husted.
Ronald has a rich history of advocating for Ohio’s minority communities. He is also a third-generation entrepreneur, with experience as an independent insurance broker, professional speaker, consultant, and Certified NFL Players Association Contract Advisor. Raised in Dayton, Ohio, Ronald has an extensive track record of working to connect diverse communities to government services, ensuring that Ohioans have the support and resources needed for personal and professional success. He is an active member of numerous boards and commissions, including the Ohio Fatherhood Commission and the JobsOhio Black Founders Advisory Council, further demonstrating his commitment to strengthening Ohio’s communities.
During the meeting, Shafi and Ronald discussed several pressing issues affecting the Somali business community, including access to resources, regulatory challenges, and the need for stronger economic opportunities. They explored strategies to enhance and support small businesses across Ohio, focusing on fostering environments where minority-owned businesses, particularly in the Somali community, can thrive and contribute to Ohio’s economic prosperity.
As President of the Somali American Chamber of Commerce, Shafi Shafat employs a strategic and holistic approach to addressing economic struggles, crime, and social divides. The focus is on building a thriving community that prospers socially, economically, and in terms of public safety. Engagement with the youth through positive alternatives to steer them away from criminal activities is a central part of this mission. These efforts are driven by a genuine understanding of the community, informed by Shafi’s personal experiences. Through collaboration with leaders like Ronald Todd, the goal is to ensure that minority communities, particularly Somali-owned businesses, have the tools and support they need to succeed and contribute to Ohio’s broader economic growth.
A surge in human metapneumovirus, or HMPV cases has been witnessed in China despite the Chinese government assurance that the situation is under control, Reuters has reported.
While the number of cases are on an upward spiral, health officials have stated that the outbreak is still within manageable scope and does not present a considerable threat of developing into a pandemic like COVID-19.
In the United States, records from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that HMPV cases have been on the rise since last November. As of December 28, 1.94% of weekly testing had returned positive for the virus.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus, which is related to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), was first detected in 2001.
Here’s everything you need know about the virus and how to stay safe.
What is human metapneumovirus?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that causes symptoms similar to the common cold. While it is largely responsible for upper respiratory infections, it can occasionally cause more significant lower respiratory difficulties such as pneumonia, asthma exacerbations, or worsening chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
What Are the alarming Signs of HMPV You Need to Watch Out for?
Common symptoms of HMPV infection include: • Cough. • Fever. • Nasal congestion. • Difficulty breathing.
The typical incubation period for human metapneumovirus is between 3 to 6 days, and the duration of the illness can vary based on its severity, but it generally follows the same timeline as other viral respiratory infections.
Human Metapneumovirus Transmission and Prevention
HMPV spreads through direct contact with an infected person or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. In the U.S., the virus mostly spreads during the winter and spring seasons. HMPV can be prevented by following some of the guidelines recommended by the CDC. • Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. • Steer clear of close contact with individuals who are sick.
Can the virus be treated?
At the moment, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV.
African Debate Series: Shafi Shafat Advocates for Minority Support of the GOP
On November 1, 2024, the African Debate Series hosted a powerful and thought-provoking debate at 83 Gallery in Columbus, Ohio. The central question: “Does the Democratic Party represent the interests and values of the African diaspora?” Demba Ndiath of the Ohio Immigration Alliance argued against the motion, while Shafi Shafat, a former Republican State Representative candidate, presented his case in favor.
Throughout the debate, Shafi Shafat spoke directly to the concerns of minority communities, making a compelling case for why they should consider aligning with the Republican Party. Shafat argued that Republican values around family, community, entrepreneurship, and conservative social norms align with those of many African and minority communities. He highlighted the GOP’s focus on economic independence, religious values, and traditional family structures, aiming to resonate with those who feel their cultural values are not fully represented by the Democratic Party.
Shafat’s arguments left a strong impression on the audience, leading many to reconsider their political stance. The debate concluded in a 50/50 tie, illustrating the significant impact of Shafat’s message and suggesting a shift in political perception among minority communities. This balanced outcome reveals an evolving interest within the African diaspora—and minority communities at large—in exploring diverse political alignments, underscoring the potential for broader engagement with the Republican Party’s principles.
Somali Communities in Minnesota and Ohio Signal Strong Support for Donald Trump
The Somali communities in Minnesota and Ohio are making headlines as many have voiced strong support for Donald Trump in the upcoming election. Community members believe that Trump’s policies may offer solutions for issues that have impacted minority communities, particularly around economic growth, safety, and empowerment.
As we look toward the election, the Somali-American community’s decision could play a key role, especially with Trump gaining more ground among minority voters this season. We’ll continue following this development and hearing from our communities
More than 78 Million voters expected to cast their votes tomorrow
Millions of Americans will vote in person in the 2024 election on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Check the times that polls open and close, since the hours vary by state, and 15 states have areas falling into two different time zones. States will begin reporting election results after their polls close.
Forty-seven states and the District of Columbia offer some form of early voting , and eight states along with D.C. allow a vote-by-mail system across the board. More than 78 million voters cast their ballots early this year.
What time do the first polls open on Election Day 2024?
The first poll opening times on the East Coast are in Vermont, where certain locations (but not all) open at 5 a.m. ET. Polling places in all or parts of five more states open at 6 a.m. ET. See a full list below.
Here’s when polls open in each state on Election Day:
Oregon is a vote-by-mail state, so it has no in-person polling locations.
As early as 5 a.m. ET
Vermont (Polls open between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m) 6 a.m. ET
Connecticut Kentucky (Polling sites in the west open at 7 a.m. ET) Maine (Polling locations open between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. depending on town population.) New Jersey New York Virginia 6:30 a.m. ET
North Carolina Ohio West Virginia 7 a.m. ET
Alabama Delaware District of Columbia Florida (8 a.m. ET in parts of the Florida Panhandle on Central time) Georgia New Hampshire (Opening times vary by county with the earliest starting at 7 a.m. ET) Illinois Indiana Kansas (Varies by county; check with your local election office for polling hours) Louisiana Maryland Massachusetts Michigan (Polling sites in four Upper Peninsula counties open at 8 a.m. ET) Missouri Pennsylvania Rhode Island (Polls in New Shoreham open at 9 a.m. ET) South Carolina Wyoming 8 a.m. ET
Arizona Iowa Minnesota (Counties with a population of less than 500 are not required to open until 11 a.m. ET) Mississippi Oklahoma North Dakota (Polls start opening at 8 a.m. ET and vary by county. ) South Dakota (Polling locations in the west open at 9 a.m. ET) Tennessee Texas (Polling sites in three western counties open at 9 a.m. ET) Wisconsin 8:30 a.m. ET
Arkansas 9 a.m. ET
Colorado Montana (Polling sites in counties with less than 400 registered voters can open as late as 2 p.m. ET) Nebraska Nevada (Polling sites open at 10 a.m. ET with the exception of City Hall in West Wendover) New Mexico Utah 10 a.m. ET
California Idaho (Polling locations in the north open at 11 a.m. ET) 11 a.m. ET
Washington (Most voting is done by mail, so times vary by county) Alaska (Polling sites open at 11 a.m. ET with the exception of Adak) 12 p.m. ET
Hawaii What time do the first polls close on Election Day 2024?
The first polls to close on the East Coast are in eastern counties of Indiana and Kentucky, at 6 p.m. ET, then the rest of those states, as well as Georgia, South Carolina, Vermont and Virginia, close at 7 p.m. ET.
Here’s when polls close in each state on Election Day:
7 p.m. ET
Georgia Indiana (Polls close at 6 p.m. ET in the 80 counties in Eastern time zone) Kentucky (Polls close at 6 p.m. ET for the 79 counties in the eastern part of the state) South Carolina Vermont Virginia 7:30 p.m. ET
North Carolina Ohio West Virginia 8 p.m. ET
Alabama Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida (Polls in Eastern time zone close at 7 p.m. ET; part of Panhandle are in Central time zone) Illinois Maine Maryland Massachusetts Mississippi Missouri New Hampshire (Polling hours vary by municipality and are listed by location ) New Jersey Oklahoma Pennsylvania Rhode Island Tennessee 8:30 p.m. ET
Arkansas 9 p.m. ET
Arizona Colorado Iowa Kansas (Polling locations close at 8 p.m. ET in all except four counties in the west) Louisiana Michigan (Polling locations close at 8 p.m. ET in all except four counties) Minnesota Nebraska New Mexico New York North Dakota (Polls close at 8 p.m. ET in all but eight counties) South Dakota (Polls close at 8 p.m. ET in the east) Texas (Polls close at 8 p.m. ET for most of the state except three counties in the west) Wisconsin Wyoming 10 p.m. ET
Montana Nevada (The polling location at City Hall in West Wendover closes at 9 p.m. ET) Utah 11 p.m. ET
California Idaho (Polling locations in the south close at 10 p.m. ET) Oregon (Polling locations in Malheur County close at 10 p.m. ET) Washington 12 a.m. ET
Hawaii 1 a.m. ET
Alaska (Polling locations close at 12 a.m. with the exception of Adak)
