12/20: CBS News Weekender
Lana Zak reports on a deadly car crash at a Christmas market in Germany, the race from lawmakers to prevent a government shutdown, and gives us a look back on the year in sports.
CBS News Weekender
Friday 5 PM ET/PT on the CBS News app
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Several Americans still detained in Russia
Americans Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan and Alsu Kurmasheva are recuperating in the U.S. following a historic prisoner exchange with Russia. However, several U.S. citizens are still imprisoned in Russia. CBS News intelligence and national security reporter Olivia Gazis explains why some Americans might not have been included in the deal.
Biles takes jab at Trump after gold medal win
Gymnast Simone Biles took a clear swipe at former President Donald Trump on social media Friday, posting "I love my black job" following her second gold medal win at the Paris Olympics. "CBS Saturday Morning" co-host and CBS News and sports correspondent Dana Jacobson is in Paris with the latest on the Games.
Park Fire breaks another California record
The devastating Park Fire in California is now the fourth-largest wildfire in the state's history. CBS News senior national and environmental correspondent Ben Tracy is in Los Angeles with more.
Retaliation fears after Hamas chief's death
There are growing concerns about how Iran will retaliate against Israel after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on Wednesday. CBS News' Courtney Kealy joins with analysis.
Harris to meet with top VP pick contenders
Vice President Kamala Harris secured enough delegates at the DNC virtual roll call Friday to become the 2024 Democratic nominee for president. Harris is expected to announce her running mate pick by Monday. CBS News senior White House correspondent Weijia Jiang has the latest.
Stocks drop following weak July jobs report
The stock market plunged Friday after a weaker-than-expected July jobs report raised fears of a slowing economy. But should Americans actually be worried about the sell-off? CBS News contributor JD Durkin joins to discuss.
Assessing the future of U.S. foreign policy
Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday in Florida. The meeting took place just one day after the Israeli leader met with President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris separately at the White House. Jon Alterman, senior vice president and director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, joins to examine how the high-stakes talks could shape American foreign policy in the Middle East.
2024 San Diego Comic-Con underway
Pop culture buffs are flocking to the West Coast for the 2024 San Diego Comic-Con. Recognized as the largest comic-con in the U.S., this year's event began Wednesday and runs through Sunday. Michael Peyton, director of events and partnerships for IGN, joins CBS News to preview the celebrity guests and panels generating buzz.
Attack disrupts French high-speed rail system
A coordinated arson attack disrupted France's high-speed train system just hours before the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony on Friday. BBC correspondent Hugh Schofield has more on the incident.
2024 Paris Olympics officially underway
The 2024 Paris Olympics are officially underway. Thousands of athletes traveled down the Seine River on Friday and witnessed the lighting of the Olympic torch. CBS Saturday Morning co-host and CBS News and sports correspondent Dana Jacobson joins from Paris with more on Friday's opening ceremony and a look at some of the new sports debuting at the Games.
How class and race impact economic mobility
A new Harvard study is checking in on how the U.S. is doing on economic mobility across race and class and examining which factors best predict success. The researchers discovered that earnings increased for white children in affluent families, but fell for those in poorer families. Benjamin Goldman, one of the study's authors, joins CBS News to unpack the findings.
Wildfires rage in Canada and California
In Canada, a fast-moving fire has ravaged the resort town of Jasper, Alberta. In Northern California, fires have burned 164,000 acres of land. CBS News Sacramento reporter Kayla Moeller joins from Chico, California, with more on the wildfires.
COVID-19 mandates saved lives, study shows
A new study is revealing the true impacts of COVID-19 rules and restrictions across the U.S. According to a JAMA Health Forum investigation, up to 447,000 lives could have been saved if every state had imposed rules similar to those in the 10 most restrictive states. CBS News medical contributor Dr. Celine Gounder joins with more.
How the FBI captured 2 Sinaloa cartel leaders
The FBI arrested the leader of Mexico's notorious Sinaloa cartel and a son of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman near El Paso on Thursday. CBS News national correspondent Manuel Bojorquez is in Irving, Texas, with more details.
Sonya Massey autopsy report released
An autopsy report released Friday confirms Sonya Massey, the Illinois woman who was fatally shot inside her home earlier this month by a sheriff's deputy, died from a gunshot wound to the head. CBS News correspondent Roxana Saberi has the latest from Chicago.
These are the 3 federal death row inmates whose sentences Biden didn't commute
The president left in place the capital punishment sentences of just three of 40 federal inmates: Dzhokar Tsarnaev, Dylann Roof and Robert Bowers.
Biden vetoes 66 new federal judgeships, blames "hurried" House action
President Biden vetoed an effort to add 66 federal judgeships, saying "hurried action" by the House left important questions unanswered.
6 key takeaways from the Matt Gaetz ethics report
The House Ethics Committee released its highly anticipated report on former Rep. Matt Gaetz, detailing allegations of sexual misconduct, drug use and obstruction. He denies wrongdoing.
Where is Santa right now? NORAD tracker maps his Christmas flight
NORAD, the North American Aerospace Command, is tracking Santa on his trip around the world this Christmas, so children and families can see where he is right now.
Mega Millions jackpot nears $1 billion for Christmas Eve lottery drawing
A Mega Millions player may win a big jackpot on Christmas Eve. The lottery prize for the December drawing is at an estimated $970 million.
Prosecutor drops appeal to reinstate "Rust" charges against Alec Baldwin
The appeal asked the court to reinstate charges, including involuntary manslaughter, against Alec Baldwin.
American imprisoned in Russia given new 15-year jail term for "espionage"
Russian-born U.S. citizen Gene Spector, who is already imprisoned in Russia on a bribery conviction, has been handed a second 15-year jail term for espionage, Russian media reports.
Legendary drug lord released from U.S. prison, deported to Colombia, freed
Fabio Ochoa arrived at Bogota's El Dorado airport on a deportation flight on Monday, wearing a grey sweatshirt and carrying his personal belongings in a plastic bag.
5 hospitalized after ski lift incident at Tahoe's Heavenly resort
At least five people were hospitalized after an incident on a Heavenly Ski Resort chairlift, officials confirmed Monday.
U.S.
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Where is Santa right now? NORAD tracker maps his Christmas flight
NORAD, the North American Aerospace Command, is tracking Santa on his trip around the world this Christmas, so children and families can see where he is right now.
What's open on Christmas Eve 2024? Stores you can visit today.
Here's which food stores, restaurants and other chains are open and closed today, Christmas Eve 2024.
Panel fails to reach consensus on national security risk of U.S. Steel sale
A government panel has failed to reach consensus on the possible national security risks of a nearly $15 billion proposed deal for Nippon Steel to purchase U.S. Steel.
Prosecutor drops appeal to reinstate "Rust" charges against Alec Baldwin
The appeal had asked the court to reinstate charges, including involuntary manslaughter, against Alec Baldwin.
How a Georgia county official stood up to a Russian ransomware ring
The Russian-based ransomware syndicate LockBit took responsibility for the cyberattack, which temporarily crippled the Georgia county's online infrastructure.
MoneyWatch
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What's open on Christmas Eve 2024? Stores you can visit today.
Here's which food stores, restaurants and other chains are open and closed today, Christmas Eve 2024.
Panel fails to reach consensus on national security risk of U.S. Steel sale
A government panel has failed to reach consensus on the possible national security risks of a nearly $15 billion proposed deal for Nippon Steel to purchase U.S. Steel.
Here's what to know about the Corporate Transparency Act ruling
The Corporate Transparency Act, or CTA, requires businesses to register with FINCEN, or face fines. Here's what to know.
Dairy farmers struggle to cover expenses as American appetites change
The work never ends on a dairy farm. The job is "rewarding spiritually, not always financially," New York farmer Nate Chittenden says.
Starbucks strike expands to more cities just days before Christmas
Starbucks baristas and Amazon delivery drivers are on strike in handful of U.S. cities as they seek wage increases.
Politics
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Key parts of Arkansas law allowing criminal charges vs. librarians struck down
A federal judge struck down key parts of an Arkansas law that would have allowed criminal charges against librarians and booksellers for providing "harmful" materials to minors.
Biden vetoes 66 new federal judgeships, blames "hurried" House action
President Biden vetoed an effort to add 66 federal judgeships, saying "hurried action" by the House left important questions unanswered.
Panel fails to reach consensus on national security risk of U.S. Steel sale
A government panel has failed to reach consensus on the possible national security risks of a nearly $15 billion proposed deal for Nippon Steel to purchase U.S. Steel.
Bill Clinton hospitalized for "testing and observation" after developing fever
Former President Bill Clinton remains in "good spirits," a spokesman said.
Ex-D.C. police officer convicted of lying about leaks to Proud Boys leader
A retired police officer in the nation's capital has been convicted of lying to authorities about leaking confidential information to the leader of the Proud Boys extremist group.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
How to stay healthy during holiday gatherings
Seasonal illnesses are increasing just days away from the holidays. The CDC reports positive flu tests are up 9% in the most recent week and cases of whooping cough are six times last year's rate. Dr. Susannah Hills, an ear, nose and throat specialist at Columbia University Medical Center, explains how to stay safe.
Health care AI, intended to save money, requires expensive humans
Despite the hype over artificial intelligence in medicine, the systems require consistent monitoring and staffing to put in place and maintain.
Are you contagious? Here's when you're most likely to spread COVID, flu, RSV
How long are you contagious after getting COVID, flu, RSV, pneumonia and more? Here's what to know to keep others safe this holiday season.
CDC releases concerning new flu numbers
Thirteen states reported "high" or "very high" levels of flu-like illness last week, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That's double the number of states from the week before. Ali Bauman reports.
A teen's misdiagnosis led to medication, but surgery led to a cure
Isaac Klapper was 10 years old when he started having episodes of what doctors initially thought was a movement disorder.
World
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American imprisoned in Russia given new 15-year jail term for "espionage"
Russian-born U.S. citizen Gene Spector, who is already imprisoned in Russia on a bribery conviction, has been handed a second 15-year jail term for espionage, Russian media reports.
Photos show well-preserved remains of baby mammoth found in Siberia
Yana is estimated to have been only about one year old when she died. She weighs more than 397 pounds and measures about 4 feet and 200 centimeters long.
Legendary drug lord released from U.S. prison, deported to Colombia, freed
Fabio Ochoa arrived at Bogota's El Dorado airport on a deportation flight on Monday, wearing a grey sweatshirt and carrying his personal belongings in a plastic bag.
Burt, the famous croc from "Crocodile Dundee" movie, dies in Australia
Burt, the iconic Saltwater crocodile that appeared alongside Paul Hogan and Linda Kozlowski in the hit movie, was believed to be more than 90 years old.
Greenland's leader says "we are not for sale" after Trump suggests U.S. takeover
President-elect Donald Trump also seemed to suggest the Panama Canal should belong to the United States.
Entertainment
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Prosecutor drops appeal to reinstate "Rust" charges against Alec Baldwin
The appeal had asked the court to reinstate charges, including involuntary manslaughter, against Alec Baldwin.
Denzel Washington gets minister's license at Harlem church
Just shy of his 70th birthday, Denzel Washington has a new line to add to an already impressive résumé.
Burt, the famous croc from "Crocodile Dundee" movie, dies in Australia
Burt, the iconic Saltwater crocodile that appeared alongside Paul Hogan and Linda Kozlowski in the hit movie, was believed to be more than 90 years old.
Meet the man behind Bergdorf Goodman's iconic holiday windows
This year's holiday displays at Bergdorf Goodman honor Fifth Avenue's bicentennial and will be on display through Jan. 6.
Samara Joy on new album, family tour
Samara Joy, the 25-year-old jazz sensation and three-time Grammy winner, joins "CBS Mornings Plus" to talk about her new album "Portrait" and her holiday tour with family.
Technology
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Technology
Researchers develop robot to help people walk
A robotic exosuit may seem like science fiction, but a team of South Korean researchers is turning the concept into reality. CBS News' Leah Mishkin explains how the new tech is helping people with disabilities walk on their own.
Holiday shoppers on the lookout for big TVs
TVs are some of the most popular items to fly off store shelves during the holidays. But this year, experts say shoppers are going bigger than ever. CBS News' Jeff Wagner explains.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Health care AI, intended to save money, requires expensive humans
Despite the hype over artificial intelligence in medicine, the systems require consistent monitoring and staffing to put in place and maintain.
Why drone hysteria has taken off
Alleged drone sightings have been multiplying exponentially, with more than 5,000 reported in the past few weeks. But experts say the majority of reports about unusual lights in the sky are probably anything but drones.
Science
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What to know about the winter solstice, 2024's shortest day
The 2024 winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, happens on Saturday, Dec. 21, and is marked with traditions and celebrations around the world.
Class-action lawsuit over plastic recycling
This week a group of plaintiffs in Missouri, Kansas, California and Florida filed a class-action lawsuit against dozens of companies and organizations, claiming they've falsely promoted how easy it is to recycle plastics. CBS News Los Angeles climatologist Marina Jurica has the details.
Why fish, birds and other animals yawn too, according to an expert
Humans aren't alone when it comes to yawning — all vertebrates do it. But why? An expert explains the likely reason behind this "evolutionarily ancient" act.
Americans coexisted with 4-ton sloths for millennia, research shows
Early Americans may have spent millennia sharing prehistoric savannas and wetlands with enormous beasts, research shows.
EPA tackling pollution in at-risk communities
The Environmental Protection Agency under President Biden created a new Office of Environmental Justice that seeks to address pollution levels in disadvantaged and marginalized communities. However, there is concern that the incoming Trump administration could do away with the new department. David Schechter reports.
Crime
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Prosecutor drops appeal to reinstate "Rust" charges against Alec Baldwin
The appeal had asked the court to reinstate charges, including involuntary manslaughter, against Alec Baldwin.
CEO murder suspect pleads not guilty in state case
Luigi Mangione pleaded not guilty to murder and terrorism charges in New York state court Monday. Prosecutors allege he shot and killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in the back and leg in Manhattan earlier this month. Lilia Luciano has more.
Legendary drug lord released from U.S. prison, deported to Colombia, freed
Fabio Ochoa arrived at Bogota's El Dorado airport on a deportation flight on Monday, wearing a grey sweatshirt and carrying his personal belongings in a plastic bag.
Mangione lawyer concerned about fair trial
The man accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson remains behind bars after pleading not guilty to murder and terrorism charges Monday morning in New York. Luigi Mangione's lawyer argues that the multiple state and federal investigations conflict with his right to a fair trial. CBS News correspondent Lilia Luciano reports.
NYC police charge man with murder of woman set on fire on subway
Sebastian Zapeta, 33, was charged with murder and arson after a woman sleeping on the New York City subway was set on fire and died, police say.
Space
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Discovery of "tipped over" black hole surprises NASA scientists
New analysis techniques and decades-old research helped NASA scientists identify an unusual black hole in a distant galaxy.
Why are the Boeing Starliner astronauts stuck in space?
Here's why NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore are stuck, but not stranded, at the International Space Station after launching into space in June.
NASA delayes return date for astronauts
NASA has delayed the return date for Boeing's Starliner astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. CBS News' Manuel Bojorquez reports on the decision to keep the two in space.
NASA leader weighs in on Elon Musk, SpaceX and plans for moon rocket
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson says he's optimistic the Trump administration will support the space agency's agenda.
Boeing Starliner crew's return delayed again
Two astronauts who have been stuck in space since June will have to wait until at least the end of March to come home after NASA on Wednesday again pushed back their return date. Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer for the Franklin Institute, joined CBS News to discuss what's causing the delays.
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Notable Deaths in 2024
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
The Scott Peterson case: New evidence?
Peterson's death sentence for the murder of his pregnant wife Laci has been overturned. Now his supporters are pushing for a complete retrial.
The troubled marriage of Ashley and Doug Benefield
The seesaw marriage between the former ballerina and her much older husband only lasted four years, until she shot him on Sept. 27, 2020.
Texas couple investigates teen daughter's unusual death
Cayley Mandadi's mother and stepfather go to extreme lengths to prove her death was no accident.
Summer music heats up 2024
Live performances are in full swing this summer. Scroll through our concert gallery, featuring pictures by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
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Elusive Chicago pizza maker has altruistic motive
Once a month, a pie slinger in Chicago sells pizza out of a truck in an alley. His thin crust pizza is so popular, it usually sells out within minutes — raising plenty of dough for a good cause. Charlie De Mar reports.
How a Georgia official took on a ransomware ring
2024 could go down as the worst year yet for ransomware attacks, in which hackers gain access to a computer server, lock up all the files and then demand payment to get the victims back online. For "Eye on America," Ash-har Quraishi has the inside story of how a public official in Atlanta stared down some of the world's most destructive cybercriminals.
How Israel pulled of its exploding pagers plot
CBS News' "60 Minutes" got an inside look at how Israel pulled off one of the most daring and sophisticated intelligence operations in history. In the so-called pager plot, devices worn by members of the Hezbollah militia were turned into miniature bombs. Lesley Stahl spoke with two recently retired Israeli agents who spent years masterminding the plan.
What's in the Matt Gaetz House ethics report?
Just before leaving Washington, D.C., for the holidays, the House Ethics Committee released a long-awaited and damning report on the conduct of former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz. Scott MacFarlane has the latest from Capitol Hill.
Biden commutes sentences of 37 death row inmates
With less than a month to go in his term, President Biden granted executive clemency to 37 of the country's 40 federal death row inmates. The move reduces their sentences to life without the possibility of parole and makes them immune to President-elect Trump's promise to resume federal executions. Ed O'Keefe has more.