US to End Military Aid to Israel, Data Center Ballots, Fox News Viewership, Adventurer’s Return, Harvard Suit Dismissal, Florida Polling Changes, Iowa Event Ruling

US to End Military Aid to Israel

In a decision announced by President Donald Trump, the United States will halt its $4 billion annual military aid to Israel at the end of this year. Previously, a 10-year agreement signed in 2016 by President Barack Obama allocated $38 billion to assist Israel in purchasing weapons. This agreement was supposed to end in 2028.

Trump expressed that political shifts in the US have made direct aid less popular among both major parties. Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed highlighted aid to Israel as a campaign issue, impacting the decision. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu anticipated the end of US aid and emphasized Israel’s need to boost its self-reliance in defense.

Instead of financial support, Netanyahu seeks deeper military and industrial integration with the US through future defense bills. Critics argue this could intertwine the two countries’ militaries even more.

Data Center Ballots Across the US

On voting day, 40 jurisdictions across the US considered measures related to data centers. Many Americans oppose new data center construction, as showed by a poll. Ohio, a key state for data center development, had 18 cities and towns voting on permits or restrictions.

Data center issues also influenced the Senate race between Jon Husted and Sherrod Brown. Jurisdictions like Joliet Township, Illinois, and Maine towns considered temporary or permanent bans, reflecting a broader discontent with the AI industry.

Fox News Viewership Decline

Fox Corporation CEO Lachlan Murdoch acknowledged a ratings drop at Fox News, attributing it to viewer fatigue after significant 2025 events. Despite outperforming competitors, Fox’s viewership declined by 23% from the previous year. However, rivals MS NOW and CNN saw substantial growth.

Adventurer Karl Bushby Completes Journey

British adventurer Karl Bushby returned home after a 31,000-mile journey spanning 28 years. He walked from South America to England, overcoming challenges like the Bering Strait and Caspian Sea. His return was celebrated in Hull, England, where he reunited with his family. Plans for a documentary and book are underway.

Harvard Admissions Lawsuit Dismissed

A judge dismissed a lawsuit by the Trump administration accusing Harvard University of not providing admissions data as per a Supreme Court ruling banning affirmative action. The ruling stated the government failed to show efforts to obtain records voluntarily. The case could be refiled, and the Justice Department pledged to continue oversight.

Florida Polling Changes Due to Flooding

Severe flooding in Florida led to the relocation of over 20 polling places on election day. The state experienced up to 28 inches of rain, prompting a state of emergency. The changes ensured voter access despite blocked roads and damaged homes.

Satanic Temple Event Approved in Iowa

A federal judge ruled that a Satanic Temple group’s holiday event must be allowed at Iowa’s Capitol. The group had previously been denied access due to concerns about a costume contest featuring Krampus. The judge’s ruling emphasized free speech rights, mandating the event’s approval within a week.