Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed that the Biden administration pressured Facebook to censor content about COVID-19 vaccines. In a Joe Rogan podcast interview, Zuckerberg explained that the government pushed Facebook to remove posts discussing vaccine side effects, even if they were true. He shared that government officials were aggressive, with some even yelling and cursing at Facebook staff. Zuckerberg emphasized that the company refused to remove true content or satire, despite increasing pressure. He also mentioned that after President Biden criticized social media for spreading misinformation, government agencies began investigating Meta.
IRS Sending Billions in Missed COVID Stimulus Checks
The IRS is sending out automatic stimulus payments to approximately 1 million taxpayers who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns, despite being eligible. These payments, totaling about $2.4 billion, are aimed at individuals who missed out on the Economic Impact Payments (stimulus checks) for 2020 and 2021. Eligible taxpayers will receive up to $1,400, with payments issued by late January via direct deposit or check. No action is required from recipients, as the payments are being sent automatically. If a taxpayer hasn’t filed their 2021 return yet, they must do so by April 15, 2025, to be considered for the credit.
Special Counsel: Jan. 6 Case Against Trump Airtight
The U.S. Justice Department under Special Counsel Jack Smith released a report detailing former President Donald Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election results. The report outlines a four-count indictment accusing Trump of plotting to obstruct the collection and certification of votes after his defeat by Joe Biden. Additionally, the report touches on another case related to Trump’s illegal retention of sensitive national security documents after leaving office. However, the section regarding the documents remains confidential due to ongoing legal proceedings involving Trump’s associates.
North Korean Fighters Kill Themselves to Avoid Capture: Report
North Korean soldiers fighting for Russia in the Kursk region against Ukrainian forces have resorted to extreme measures, including suicide, to avoid capture. This comes after a Ukrainian special forces operation where a North Korean soldier killed himself with a grenade when found alive among several dead comrades. The presence of North Korean soldiers in Ukraine has been confirmed by both Ukraine and Western nations, with estimates suggesting as many as 12,000 North Korean troops have been deployed, with around 11,000 stationed in Kursk.
Starbucks: Buy Something or Get Out
Starbucks is ending its policy that allowed anyone to use its restrooms or hang out in its cafes without making a purchase. The company’s new policy, announced on Monday, aims to improve the cafe experience, prioritize paying customers, and address concerns over homelessness and non-paying individuals using Starbucks as a shelter or bathroom. The changes are part of CEO Brian Niccol’s plan to boost sales and improve relations with workers.
Israel, Hamas Close to Ceasefire Deal, US Says
U.S. officials are optimistic about reaching a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20. The proposed three-phase agreement includes the gradual release of 33 hostages, a surge in humanitarian aid, and Israeli withdrawals from some Gaza areas. However, unresolved details, such as the continuation of the ceasefire, remain. The second and third phases involve further releases and an eventual reconstruction plan for Gaza, supervised internationally.
