Four swing-district centrist House Republicans joined Democrats on Wednesday to trigger a vote on extending Obamacare subsidies. The bill would renew enhanced premium tax credits for three years before they expire December 31st, affecting about 22 million Americans. The House could vote on the subsidy extension in early January if it clears procedural hurdles. (Story URL)
Ahmed al Ahmed, who tackled a gunman during the Bondi Beach Hanukkah shooting, has received more than $1.5 million in donations. The shop owner disarmed one of two attackers who killed 15 people near Sydney. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised him as “an example of the strength of humanity.” Al Ahmed, 44, remains hospitalized with gunshot wounds to his left arm. (Story URL)
The Senate approved the $901 billion National Defense Authorization Act, sending it to President Trump for signature despite his concerns. The 3,000-page bill includes a 4% military pay raise and funding to improve housing. It withholds part of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s travel budget until he releases unedited video and orders of U.S. strikes on alleged drug boats. (Story URL)
Ghislaine Maxwell has asked a federal court to overturn or amend her conviction and 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking minors and related crimes. The request could delay the release of the Epstein files required under a new federal law. Maxwell, who has exhausted her direct appeals, submitted a habeas petition claiming “substantial new evidence has emerged.” (Story URL)
The FDA says a New York food company is recalling a non-dairy ice cream that may contain “small stones.” The voluntary recall covers pints of So Delicious Dairy Free Salted Caramel Cluster with best-by dates of August 8, 2027. According to the FDA, small stones or other hard materials might be embedded in the cashew pieces used in the product. (Story URL)
