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Up First briefing: State of the economy; a possible Trump indictment; difficult bosses
View Date:2024-12-23 21:13:12
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Today's top stories
What is going on with the economy? If you're confused, you're not alone — I am too. Economic forecasters are now more optimistic that the Federal Reserve can get inflation under control and avoid a recession. But we're not out of the woods yet. The Fed is expected to raise interest rates again this week, and a job market downturn is still possible, which could mean more layoffs. These are some key signs to look out for regarding the health of the U.S. economy.
Former President Donald Trump is anticipating a third indictment — this time related to his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.
- NPR's Carrie Johnson says on Up First that this indictment would, in some ways, be "the most serious criminal case against Trump." Charges could include conspiracy to defraud the U.S. and obstruction of Congress on Jan. 6. Johnson adds Trump made his legal problems "a centerpiece of his campaign," claiming he's been politically targeted.
- As Trump waits for a decision on this potential indictment, he'll be preparing for the trial for the case related to his alleged mishandling of classified documents, set for May 20, 2024. Here's what to know about this case.
House Republicans have advanced a package of bills that could reduce health insurance costs. But the cheaper costs could also undermine protections for patients under the Affordable Care Act. The CHOICE Arrangement Act would allow self-employed people and businesses to band together to buy large group plans. The plans are less expensive because they don't have to meet ACA standards, like covering hospitalization, prescription drugs, and mental health care.
Spanish residents woke up to an uncertain political future today. The weekend's national elections failed to produce a clear winner, as neither major party won enough support to form a government. Politicians must now wrangle a new deal, or a new vote will take place later this year.
- Though the far-right Vox party didn't perform well, NPR's Miguel Macias reports that its "toxic" style, which tends to disregard facts, has "certainly changed the tone of political discourse in Spain.
Life advice
It's the start of another work week, and many of you may be walking into an environment where you don't get along with your boss. Career coach Brandon Johnson recently helped a Life Kit listener navigate a boss that won't stop talking about politics at work. His advice can be applied to many workplace conflicts:
- Control what you can, like how much direct contact you have with the difficult person.
- Request a meeting to discuss healthy workplace boundaries.
- Consider asking HR for help if the situation is impacting your work.
- Try to move the relationship toward being more generative rather than negative.
I'm really into
Even as an adult, former NPR intern Jamal Michel still finds value in his toys. He writes that toy photography allows him to tap into his inner child and examine unresolved traumas. His projects explore identity and Black representation while allowing him to hold on to the joys of youth.
What are you really into? Fill out this form or leave us a voice note at 800-329-4273, and part of your submission may be featured online or on the radio.
3 things to know before you go
- It's the cutest problem ever: Dozens of domesticated bunnies have overrun a community in Florida, prompting a nonprofit to come help catch and rehome them.
- The Women's World Cup is underway, which means we'll see iconic shots of players victoriously throwing off their shirts to celebrate wins. This wouldn't be possible without the sports bra — a garment that has come a long way from its humble beginnings.
- U.S. Rep. Robert Garcia thinks that nerds have the power to do great things. He was at Comic-Con this weekend to announce a congressional caucus focused on popular arts.
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Related
- Deommodore Lenoir contract details: 49ers ink DB to $92 million extension
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- FBI searching for Jan. 6 suspect Gregory Yetman in Middlesex County, New Jersey
- Underclassmen can compete in all-star games in 2024, per reports. What that means for NFL draft
- South Carolina lab recaptures 5 more escaped monkeys but 13 are still loose
- Tracy Chapman becomes first Black woman to win CMA Award 35 years after 'Fast Car' debut
- HSN failed to report dangerous defect in 5.4 million steamers
- Israel agrees to 4-hour daily pauses in Gaza fighting to allow civilians to flee, White House says
- Jason Kelce collaborates with Stevie Nicks for Christmas duet: Hear the song
- 10 alleged Gambino crime family members and associates arrested on racketeering, extortion charges
Ranking
- South Carolina lab recaptures 5 more escaped monkeys but 13 are still loose
- Kim Kardashian fuels Odell Beckham Jr. dating rumors by attending NFL star's birthday party
- After Ohio vote, advocates in a dozen states are trying to put abortion on 2024 ballots
- Kaiser Permanente workers ratify contract after strike over wages and staffing levels
- Judge set to rule on whether to scrap Trump’s conviction in hush money case
- Plastic balloon responsible for death of beached whale found in North Carolina
- Analysts warn that Pakistan’s anti-migrant crackdown risks radicalizing deported Afghans
- Nordstrom Rack's Clear the Rack Sale Is Here: Save up to 95% on Madewell, Kate Spade & More
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