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Defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth faces congressional questions about sexual assault allegations and women in combat. Special Counsel Jack Smith asserts in a DOJ report that he would have secured a conviction against Donald Trump. And Houston police admit that a rat infestation in an evidence vault could have affected thousands of cases. 

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As thousands of families seek shelter, rental prices in Los Angeles skyrocket. Sources say a Gaza ceasefire could be days, or even hours, away. And public health officials say emergency room visits continue to rise due to several viruses.

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As firefighters work to contain multiple wildfires in Southern California, there are new concerns about high winds in the forecast. President-elect Trump’s cabinet picks head to Capitol Hill this week for high-stakes hearings. And the coolest gadgets and cars are unveiled at CES 2025.

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As multiple wildfires damage tens of thousands of structures in Southern California, experts warn it could exacerbate the state’s already unstable insurance market. The Supreme Court clears the way for President-elect Trump to be sentenced in his hush money case. And in a show of unity, the country mourns former President Jimmy Carter.

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New fires have erupted in Los Angeles, sending residents fleeing. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito confirms ABC’s reporting that he received a phone call from President-elect Trump the same day Trump put forth an emergency appeal. And a Virginia hospital shuts its NICU as a former nurse is arrested for abusing a baby, with other cases being investigated. 

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Firefighters in Southern California battle multiple brush fires fueled by a windstorm, prompting thousands to evacuate. Facebook announces it will reset its fact-checking policies. And a federal judge tells the Justice Department it’s not allowed to release Special Counsel Jack Smith’s final report on his Trump investigations.

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Facing dissatisfaction at home and taunts from abroad, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces his plans to resign. President Biden issues a landmark ban on offshore billing that will be tough to undo. And U.S. Steel sues the federal government in a desperate bid to merge with a Japanese firm.

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With January 6th looming over events, House Speaker Mike Johnson plans a massive bill to try to appease warring factions within the GOP. The FBI releases new details about the New Orleans attacker’s past. And the nation’s first “congestion pricing” plan goes into effect. 

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Police rule out accomplices in the New Orleans truck attack. Meanwhile, Las Vegas authorities comb the scene of a truck explosion outside Trump International Hotel. And House Speaker Mike Johnson hopes to win back his gavel, despite uncertain Republicans.

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A rampage in New Orleans is being investigated as a terror attack. And after a week of deadly plane crashes, viral outbreaks and partisan infighting, “Start Here” breaks down the biggest stories of the last week.

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