Outgoing US President Joe Biden stated he could have defeated Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election but withdrew to unify the Democratic Party. In July 2024, Biden endorsed Kamala Harris as his replacement, citing party concerns about his health and performance. Despite Harris's loss, Biden expressed confidence in her leadership and potential to run again. Reflecting on his term, Biden called it the "greatest honour" of his life and ruled out withdrawing from public life. He denied any plans to pardon himself or his family, asserting he has "done nothing wrong."

Nearly 1,000 incarcerated individuals are battling massive wildfires in California, part of a programme run by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The fires have destroyed 10,000 structures, burned 37,000 acres, and killed 11 people. Inmates, earning $5.80-$10.24 daily, cut fire lines and clear fuel to slow the spread. Critics call the programme exploitative due to low wages and lack of recognition, while supporters argue it provides training, time credits, and better living conditions. Many inmates face stigma after release, struggling to become professional firefighters despite California's firefighter shortage.

Elon Musk's biographer, Seth Abramson, has raised concerns about Musk’s mental health, accusing him of being "deeply unwell." In posts on X, Abramson cited Musk’s acknowledged struggles with stress, drug use, and mental health, warning of risks posed by his influence over key industries like AI, aerospace, and social media. Abramson also criticized Musk’s controversial behavior online, including his support for far-right figures and polarizing political remarks. Calling for urgent action, Abramson urged the government to terminate contracts with Musk and file lawsuits. The claims have sparked widespread debate, with users questioning Musk’s stability and intentions.

Los Angeles wildfires have killed 11 people and destroyed 10,000 homes since Tuesday. Sheriff Robert Luna likened the devastation to an "atomic bomb." Despite efforts, fires continue to threaten upscale neighborhoods, including Hollywood Hills. Strong winds and red-flag conditions complicate firefighting efforts. Over 1 lakh homes are without power, and schools remain shut due to hazardous air. President Biden has declared the disaster a major emergency, promising 100% federal support for 180 days. Relief efforts include donations, with actor Jamie Lee Curtis pledging $1 million. Authorities have detained one man for possible arson and arrested 20 for looting.

A night-time curfew has been enforced in Los Angeles’ fire-hit Pacific Palisades and Eaton Fires areas to combat looting, deemed “despicable” by police. The devastating wildfires have claimed 10 lives and destroyed 10,000 buildings, displacing 180,000 residents. Authorities warn that high winds and critical fire conditions could spread the blazes further, with a red flag warning in place. Firefighters are battling to contain the fires, which have ravaged residential neighborhoods and caused billions in damages. Officials urge compliance with evacuation orders as efforts to protect lives and property continue.

President-elect Donald Trump will not face jail time or fines following his criminal conviction in the hush money case involving Stormy Daniels. A New York judge granted Trump unconditional discharge, leaving a guilty judgment on his record without further penalties. Trump, who has vowed to appeal, called the case a "political witch hunt" aimed at damaging his reputation. The conviction stems from falsifying business records over a $130,000 payment to Daniels before the 2016 election. Trump denies wrongdoing, asserting his innocence. This marks the first criminal case against a US president as Trump prepares for his White House return.

Indo-Canadian MP Chandra Arya has announced his candidacy for Canada's Prime Minister after Justin Trudeau's decision to step down. Arya, representing Nepean, aims to lead the Liberal Party and transform Canada into a republic. Born in Karnataka, India, Arya has championed Hindu-Canadian causes and opposed Khalistani extremism. His campaign focuses on smaller governance, merit-based cabinet appointments, and addressing affordability issues. Arya also proposes increasing the retirement age and recognizing Palestine as a state. His entry highlights a significant moment for Indo-Canadians in Canadian politics. Arya joins former MP Frank Baylis and others in the race for Liberal leadership.

The Los Angeles wildfires have claimed 10 lives, destroyed 10,000 buildings, and caused $150 billion in damages. Five major fires, including the Palisades Fire, have consumed 145 sq km and displaced 180,000 residents. While some blazes are partially contained, others, like the Eaton Fire, remain uncontrolled. Looting has surged, leading to 20 arrests, while a curfew and National Guard patrols aim to restore order. Authorities urge residents to follow evacuation orders as efforts to combat these fires continue. The fires, among the most destructive in Los Angeles County's history, have ravaged upscale neighborhoods and residential zones.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau revealed a humorous exchange with President-elect Donald Trump, suggesting Canada could trade Vermont or California if tariffs were imposed. Trump had reportedly proposed absorbing Canada as the 51st US state to address trade issues. Trudeau dismissed the idea, emphasizing that tariffs would harm both nations' economies. Speaking to business leaders, he highlighted the importance of free trade and warned against policies that inflate prices and discourage growth. Trudeau’s office reiterated his stance on maintaining stable trade relations. On Twitter, Trudeau firmly stated there’s “no chance” Canada would join the US, stressing Canadian independence.

Donald Trump, the US President-elect, was sentenced in the hush money case involving $130,000 paid to adult film actor Stormy Daniels during his 2016 campaign. Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan convicted Trump of 34 counts of falsifying business records but opted for an unconditional discharge, avoiding jail time or fines. The historic verdict makes Trump the first US president with a felony conviction. Trump, attending the hearing virtually, labeled the conviction a "setback for New York" and claimed it was politically motivated to harm his election bid. The judgment concludes years of legal wrangling over the controversial payments.