The Social Security Administration announced a 3.2% cost of living adjustment (COLA) for Social Security benefits in 2024, which is higher than the historical norm of 2.6%. This will result in an average monthly payment increase of $50 to $1,907, and is intended to help seniors and other beneficiaries keep up with the rising cost of living. However, experts warn that with inflation still far from pre-pandemic levels, recipients may be at risk of losing financial ground with the smaller adjustment.
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House Republicans have elected Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.) as their House Speaker, despite criticism from Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) who cited Scalise's past association with and comments about white supremacists. Scalise won the caucus vote 113 to 99, and the floor vote was moved up to this afternoon, presumably to get the vote done before anyone could make trouble. Mace said she would be doing an “enormous disservice” to the voters she represents in South Carolina if she voted for Scalise.
Key takeaways: Steve Scalise has won the Republican nomination for House Speaker, but the full House vote to elect him is still uncertain. Scalise won…
Darryl George, an 18-year-old Black high school student in Texas, has been removed from his school and sent to a disciplinary alternative education program after being suspended for his dreadlocks. The incident has sparked outrage among civil rights groups, who argue that the school district is discriminating against George, and has raised questions about the school district's policies and the potential for discrimination against students of color. It has also highlighted the need for more inclusive policies that take into account the cultural and religious backgrounds of students.
New York Republicans are introducing a resolution to expel Rep. George Santos from the House of Representatives due to new federal charges of identity theft, credit card fraud and more. The resolution is being co-sponsored by fellow New York House Republicans and will be introduced on the House floor later this week. The House Ethics Committee is also investigating Santos for alleged violations of House rules, but the outcome of the resolution is still unclear.
Key takeaways: Sergio Brown, a former NFL player, has been taken into custody in San Diego, California following a weekslong manhunt related to the death…
House Republicans are attempting to select a new speaker after the historic ouster of Rep. Kevin McCarthy last week. Majority Leader Steve Scalise and Judiciary Committee chair Jim Jordan are making their pitches to small caucuses and state delegations in an effort to secure the gavel. The nominee will need to secure a simple majority of all House members, though it is unclear when a final decision will be made.
Key takeaways: The FTC has proposed a new rule that would ban hidden and bogus fees that can cost consumers an extra $80 billion every…