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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Justice Department won't prosecute AG Garland
The Justice Department said Friday that it will not prosecute Attorney General Merrick Garland after the House voted to hold him in contempt of Congress for defying a subpoena. CBS News congressional correspondent Nikole Killion has details.
Takeaways from second day of G7 summit
Friday marked the second day of the G7 summit in Southern Italy. The leaders of the world's major democracies and their allies discussed migration, economic security and tensions with China, and participated in a working session on artificial intelligence with Pope Francis. CBS News chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes has more.
What bump stock ruling means for gun laws
The Supreme Court has struck down a ban on bump stocks for guns. The device can be added to semi-automatic rifles to allow the user to fire bullets more rapidly. CBS News chief legal correspondent Jan Crawford explains the ruling.
What to know ahead of the French Open finals
Some of the best tennis players in the world will be squaring off in the French Open finals this weekend. Joshua Robinson, European sports reporter for The Wall Street Journal, joins CBS News to discuss what he's watching for in the men's and women's singles finals.
Russian drills in Caribbean: What to expect
Russian President Vladimir Putin is preparing to hold military exercises in the Caribbean. Russian warships will begin to arrive near Cuba next week. CBS News national security contributor Sam Vinograd joins to unpack the drills.
East Coast braces for invasive flying spiders
The cicadas have already taken over parts of the U.S., and they may soon have some eight-legged company. Giant flying "Joro" spiders are expected to swing into the East Coast later this summer. David Coyle, assistant professor of forest health and invasive species at Clemson University, joins CBS News to explain what to know about the arachnids.
Las Vegas sets new heat record
A massive heat dome is currently sulking over California, Texas, and parts of the Southwest. CBS News senior national and environmental correspondent Ben Tracy has more details from Las Vegas, which broke a daily record at 111 degrees Fahrenheit Thursday.
2024 Tribeca Film Festival: What to watch
The 2024 Tribeca Film Festival is in full swing in New York City. Brent Lang, executive editor at Variety Magazine, joins CBS News to break down the must-see movies, panels, performances and more.
How the Fed could react to May jobs report
The latest data from the Labor Department shows the U.S. added 272,000 jobs in May. The figure was much higher than economists expected, indicating that the market is not slowing down. CBS News senior business and technology correspondent Jo Ling Kent explains what the report means for the Fed's fight against inflation.
Israeli strikes hit central, southern Gaza
Israeli military strikes in central and southern Gaza killed dozens of Palestinians Friday. CBS News' Chris Livesay is in Tel Aviv with the latest.
Naomi Biden testifies in father's gun trial
The prosecution has rested its case in Hunter Biden's federal gun trial. On Friday, the defense called its first witnesses, including Hunter's daughter Naomi. CBS News congressional correspondent Scott MacFarlane reports.
Takeaways from Biden's Pointe du Hoc speech
President Biden spoke Friday at one of the sites where, 80 years ago, American troops turned the tides of World War II and helped secure victory for the Allied forces. In his speech, Mr. Biden called on the world to heed the lessons of that war and stand against hateful ideologies. CBS News correspondent Elaine Cobbe has more from Paris.
Kyrie Irving facing former team in NBA Finals
The Dallas Mavericks sent the Minnesota Timberwolves home Thursday night after five games to advance to the NBA Finals. Now they'll face the top team in the East, the Boston Celtics, in a best-of-seven series for the Larry O'Brien Trophy. Mike Vorkunov, national NBA and basketball business reporter for The Athletic, joins CBS News to discuss the Mavs' win over Minnesota, and what's next for them in the championship series.
Study: Climate change killing summer oysters
A recent study from the University of Washington suggests that rising summer temperatures threaten triploid oysters, specifically bred in the 1970s to be more resilient to harsher environments. Despite that, researchers found that triploids die nearly 2.5 times faster than other oysters when under heat stress. Neil Thompson, geneticist for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service, joins CBS News to unpack the findings.
Northern lights may return to U.S. early June
If you missed the fantastic display of the northern lights in May, you could soon have another chance. In early June, the active solar region responsible for those multi-colored hues in the night sky will be in prime position to generate solar storms impacting us on Earth. Ryan French, solar physicist with the National Solar Observatory, joins CBS News to explain.
Toy industry bracing for impact of Trump's promised tariffs
Toy stores and the toy industry are warning that his pledge to add tariffs to Chinese imports could harm their businesses.
3 shot, 1 stabbed in Christmas night dispute at Phoenix airport, police say
Gunfire rang out at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Christmas night and left three people wounded, police say. Another was stabbed. One was in critical condition.
Beyoncé's halftime show the highlight of a lackluster NFL Christmas slate
Beyoncé surprised fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform "Sweet Honey Buckiin," and Post Malone joined her for "Levii's Jeans."
Baby found abandoned on street near Denver on Christmas morning, parents arrested
Two people have been arrested and are facing charges of felony child abuse after a one-month-old baby was discovered in the median of a road Christmas morning.
Girl, 8, missing, father dead after SUV swept away by Texas floodwaters
The tragic incident on Tuesday when her family's SUV left the roadway, got caught in a drainage ditch near U.S. 75 and Taylor Street, and was carried away by strong currents.
Plane crash in Kazakhstan killed dozens but many on board survived, officials say
Mobile phone footage circulating online appeared to show the Azerbaijani aircraft making a steep descent before slamming into the ground in a fireball.
6 hurt when taxi hits pedestrians in NYC's Herald Square
Six people were hurt including a young boy when a taxi hit pedestrians in NYC's Herald Square on Christmas Day.
Prison guard dead after Christmas morning assault by inmate, officials say
A corrections officer died after an assault by an inmate in an Ohio prison on Christmas morning, authorities say.
4 dead in New Hampshire from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning
Four people were found dead on Christmas in Wakefield, New Hampshire from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, the fire marshal said.
U.S.
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3 shot, 1 stabbed in Christmas night dispute at Phoenix airport, police say
Gunfire rang out at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Christmas night and left three people wounded, police say. Another was stabbed. One was in critical condition.
What is Boxing Day? All about the celebration's origin and traditions
Boxing Day 2024 is here, but not all Americans understand the meaning of the holiday celebrated in countries like the U.K. and Canada.
Prison guard dead after Christmas morning assault by inmate, officials say
A corrections officer died after an assault by an inmate in an Ohio prison on Christmas morning, authorities say.
Beyoncé's halftime show the highlight of a lackluster NFL Christmas slate
Beyoncé surprised fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform "Sweet Honey Buckiin," and Post Malone joined her for "Levii's Jeans."
The toy industry is bracing for the impact of Trump's promised tariffs
Toy stores and the toy industry are warning that Trump's pledge to add tariffs to Chinese imports could harm their businesses.
MoneyWatch
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The toy industry is bracing for the impact of Trump's promised tariffs
Toy stores and the toy industry are warning that Trump's pledge to add tariffs to Chinese imports could harm their businesses.
Pet food brand issues recall over bird flu contamination
A voluntary recall was issued for a line of raw and frozen pet food after a cat died of bird flu.
Lawyers for ex-Abercrombie CEO say he has dementia, can't stand trial
Defense lawyers say the former longtime CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch may have dementia, prompting a competency hearing.
Is anything open on Christmas Day? Here's what's open and closed.
Last-minute grocery items and gifts can be found on Christmas Day, but many retailers and chains may be closed today.
Starbucks strike shuts down hundreds of locations
More than 5,000 workers were expected to take part in walkout that ends later on Christmas Eve, their union says.
Politics
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Trial of man accused in Trump assassination attempt in Florida pushed back
Ryan Wesley Routh is being held in Miami awaiting trial in Fort Pierce.
With Biden's signature, bald eagle officially America's bird
President Biden signed legislation Christmas Eve to make the bald eagle officially the U.S. national bird.
Biden signs 50 bills into law on Christmas Eve
Among the new laws signed by President Biden are Paris Hilton's bill to protect institutionalized teenagers and a bill to address hazing on college campuses.
Bill Clinton discharged from hospital after being treated for flu
Former President Bill Clinton was released from a hospital in Washington. D.C., on Christmas Eve, following an overnight stay for treatment of a fever and flu.
Biden signs defense bill, despite ban on transgender health care for military kids
President Biden has signed the annual defense authorization bill into law.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
Why some children are turning to GLP-1 drugs
A growing number of young people are receiving prescriptions for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Janet Shamlian examines why.
FDA raises urgency of Costco egg recall
The FDA has raised the level of a Costco egg recall, warning of the risk of severe illness or death due to potential salmonella contamination. Over 10,000 cartons of Kirkland brand organic eggs sold at stores across the South are affected. Customers are urged to discard or return eggs marked with Julian code 327 and a use-by date of Jan. 5, 2025.
Expert tips to support your immune system
With flu levels rising, Dr. Rabia De Latour shares ways to support your immune system and stay healthy during the holidays.
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.
World
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What is Boxing Day? All about the celebration's origin and traditions
Boxing Day 2024 is here, but not all Americans understand the meaning of the holiday celebrated in countries like the U.K. and Canada.
Over 100 migrants rescued trying to cross English Channel on Christmas
At least 73 migrants have died trying to cross the English Channel to Britain this year, according to French authorities, making 2024 the deadliest year on record for the crossings.
347 skiers rescued by helicopter in French Alps
Chairlifts at two different resorts in the French Alps broke down on Tuesday, stranding hundreds in two separate incidents.
Royal family celebrates Christmas with no sign of Prince Andrew
King Charles III was joined at Christmas services by close members of the royal family, including Prince William and Kate — but Prince Andrew was notably absent.
Bridge collapse in Brazil leaves at least 2 dead, dozen missing
A bridge linking two northern states in Brazil collapsed, sending cars and trucks plunging into the river below. A sulphuric acid spill is complicating the rescue operation.
Entertainment
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Beyoncé's halftime show the highlight of a lackluster NFL Christmas slate
Beyoncé surprised fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform "Sweet Honey Buckiin," and Post Malone joined her for "Levii's Jeans."
Angel Blue on Met role debut in "Aida" and Opera journey
Angel Blue, who was recently named Classical Music's "Vocalist of the Year," is set to perform the title role in "Aida" at the Metropolitan Opera. Known for her Grammy-winning performances, Blue will take the stage in New York beginning on Dec. 31. She joins "CBS Mornings Plus."
Netflix carrying 2 NFL games on Christmas Day. It's a big step.
Netflix will have one of its biggest days Wednesday since the site launched in 1998 when it airs two NFL games for the first time.
Prosecutor drops appeal, ending case against Alec Baldwin in "Rust" shooting
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.
Technology
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Technology
AI features dominating tech heading into 2025
New artificial intelligence features appeared across the tech landscape this year, from the latest iPhone to chatbots like Google's Gemini. Adam Auriemma, the editor-in-chief at CNET, joins CBS News 24/7 with more.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Science
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Orca who carried her dead calf for 17 days has a new baby
Tahlequah has a newborn girl, years after she made headlines for carrying her dead calf for 17 days.
2,600-year-old shipwreck is raised from waters off Spain
An ancient shipwreck that dates back to the 7th century B.C.E. has been removed from waters off Spain, two decades after its discovery in 1994.
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.
Crime
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3 shot, 1 stabbed in Christmas night dispute at Phoenix airport, police say
Gunfire rang out at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Christmas night and left three people wounded, police say. Another was stabbed. One was in critical condition.
Prison guard dead after Christmas morning assault by inmate, officials say
A corrections officer died after an assault by an inmate in an Ohio prison on Christmas morning, authorities say.
Backpacks full of $1.1 million worth of cocaine found near Canada border
Agents found 30 brick-like packages of cocaine inside the backpacks, located in a wooded area in Washington near the U.S. border with Canada.
"Desperate" killer who escaped from Mississippi prison is recaptured
Authorities in Mississippi say a "desperate" and "very dangerous" convicted murderer, Drew Johnson, is back in custody after escaping from prison Tuesday.
Former Philadelphia Eagles running back pleads guilty to fraud charges
Former Philadelphia Eagles running back Wendell Smallwood Jr. pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges.
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.
Latest Galleries
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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.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Academy teaches students the art of playing Santa
Twice a year, between 100 and 150 student Santas and Mrs. Clauses from as far away as Europe enroll at the Northern Lights Santa Academy in Atlanta for a three-day boot camp where they will learn to become professional Christmas entertainers. Skyler Henry has details.
In show of unity, 4 pastors swap congregations
In Midland, Texas, four pastors from different denominations decided to exchange pulpits for one day in order to deliver a message about tolerance and acceptance to their congregations and the community. Jason Allen has more.
Celebrating the holidays around the globe
Jericka Duncan takes a look at how Christmas and Hanukkah are being marked around the world and even aboard the International Space Station.
Why some children are turning to GLP-1 drugs
A growing number of young people are receiving prescriptions for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Janet Shamlian examines why.
The impact of tariffs on the U.S. toy industry
If President-elect Donald Trump follows through on his threat of imposing new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China, it could have major repercussions for the U.S. toy industry. Kelly O'Grady explains.