Even One Glass of Wine Now a Danger: US Govt
The idea that a daily glass of wine is good for heart health is being reconsidered. While past U.S. guidelines have recommended moderate alcohol consumption—up to two drinks a day for men and one for women—the latest advice from U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy highlights growing concerns over alcohol’s cancer risk. Even small amounts of alcohol, Murthy warns, may contribute to cancer, which is responsible for 100,000 cases and 20,000 deaths annually in the U.S. Alcohol is linked to a higher risk of seven types of cancer, including breast cancer.
Canadian Leader Resigns, Trump Calls for US Merger
Following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation announcement, President-elect Trump proposed merging the U.S. and Canada. On Truth Social, Donald Trump argued that such a merger would eliminate tariffs, lower taxes, and provide security against Russian and Chinese threats. He emphasized the economic benefits for both countries, citing reduced trade deficits for the U.S. and less reliance on Canadian subsidies. Trump suggested that many Canadians would welcome becoming the “51st State” of the U.S.
Lawyers Seek Delay in President’s NY Sentencing
Trump’s legal team filed a motion to delay the Stormy Daniels hush-money case sentencing, scheduled for January 10, 2025, calling it unlawful. The motion references the U.S. Supreme Court’s immunity ruling and New York’s state constitution. Trump’s spokesperson criticized the case as a politically motivated “witch hunt” and urged for its dismissal. The Manhattan District Attorney’s office opposed the delay, requesting the court proceed with sentencing as scheduled.
McDonald’s Latest to Drop DEI Campaign
In response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2023 decision against affirmative action in college admissions, McDonald’s announced it would scale back its diversity efforts. The company plans to retire specific diversity goals for senior leadership and halt programs aimed at improving supplier diversity. This move follows similar actions by other companies, including Walmart and Harley-Davidson, who have revised their diversity practices in light of the ruling.
New York Tries to Tax Traffic, Website Crashes
The E-ZPass New York website briefly crashed on January 5 due to high traffic as the new congestion pricing toll in Manhattan took effect. The toll charges drivers entering Midtown below 60th Street, with peak rates of $9 on weekdays and $12 by 2028. Drivers without an E-ZPass will face higher charges. The congestion toll had initially been delayed but was rolled out after the presidential election, with prices set to increase gradually over the next few years.
