"CBS Evening News" headlines for December 17, 2020
Here's a look at the top stories making headlines on the "CBS Evening News with Norah O'Donnell."
Stephen Colbert
Joe Biden downplays recent gaffes
Former Vice President Joe Biden addressed a series of recent gaffes during a Wednesday appearance on "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert." CBS News 2020 campaign reporter Bo Erickson discusses how voters are responding to Biden's recent slip-ups.
Biden defends gaffes on Colbert, jokingly calls him Jimmy Kimmel
"Any gaffe that I have made — and I've made gaffes like every politician I know has — have been not about the substance of issue," Biden said
Jon Stewart fires back at Mitch McConnell over 9/11 victims fund
"I beg of you, meet with [first responders] tomorrow," Stewart said to McConnell "But you know what? If you're busy, I get it"
Howard Stern talks about "wild" Trump on Colbert
Stern said things would be different if Hillary Clinton had come on his show – and he explained why Bernie Sanders is his "hero"
Swalwell says he's running for president
Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell of California announced he is joining the 2020 presidential race. In an appearance on "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" on Monday, Swalwell said he intends to make gun violence a key focus of his campaign.
Gayle King reveals new video from R. Kelly interview
"I know older women ... I love women," Kelly says in the clip, deflecting a question about why he continues seeing young women
Meghan McCain: I won't forget Trump's comments about my father
"I really want it made very clear that the Trumps had beef with me then and in the words of Cardi B, they're going to have beef with me forever," Meghan McCain told Stephen Colbert
Gillibrand announces 2020 bid
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand has joined a growing list of Democrats who said they intend to run for president. The announcement came during a taping of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert."
Kirsten Gillibrand formally enters 2020 race with Colbert appearance
The New York senator said her first priority as president would be to "restore what's been lost" in America
Stephen Colbert and Hugh Jackman remember Stan Lee on "The Late Show"
"Today, the world lost a legend," Colbert said
Julia Louis-Dreyfus honored for career achievement in comedy
"Veep" actress and "Seinfeld" alum is 21st person to be honored with the award by the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Behind the songs of Jon Batiste's new album
Jon Batiste, bandleader of "The Late Show With Stephen Colbert," is out with a new album called "Hollywood Africans." In an interview with "CBS This Morning" co-host John Dickerson, Batiste plays and talks through the songs, "Kenner Boogie," "St. James Infirmary," "What a Wonderful World," and "Don’t Stop."
Colbert claims he has Kavanaugh’s 1982 day planner
The "Late Show" host joked one entry supposedly reads, "Remember to save calendar as future evidence"
Tiffany Haddish tells Colbert she doesn’t need a man
Haddish got naughty on the "Late Show" set
N.C. law could increase damage from hurricanes like Florence
State lawmakers banned using recent climate science to plan for the consequences of rising sea levels
Colbert challenges bearded Alex Trebek to trivia face-off
Colbert says there cannot be two "Colbeards"
Stephen Colbert "not surprised" by Leslie Moonves’ exit
Colbert said, "It's never a good sign when you're the subject of a Ronan Farrow double-dip"
Issa Rae shares advice from Shonda Rhimes on "The Late Show”
Rae told Stephen Colbert that one of her biggest issues is trying not to upset people
Colbert calls for "accountability" from CBS CEO Les Moonves
"Late Show" host Stephen Colbert spoke up about the sexual misconduct allegations against his boss, CBS CEO Les Moonves
Ocasio-Cortez explains democratic socialism on the "Late Show"
The 28-year-old activist who defeated powerful Democratic Rep. Joe Crowley in Tuesday's primary appeared on the "Late Show"
How late-night's joint cold open came about
Both Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Fallon's late-night shows ran the same cold open Tuesday night, a first time for both. The idea was Colbert's. He called Fallon Tuesday and the "Tonight Show" host quickly agreed. Jimmy Kimmel was on vacation and totally off the grid, but Conan O'Brien also agreed right away to join in.
Bill Clinton: "Today" interview "wasn't my finest hour"
Former president has been criticized about his comments, especially when he said his critics are "omitting facts" to lump him in with other men accused of sexual assault and harassment
Bill Clinton's interview with Colbert
Former President Clinton was offered a second chance to discuss the #MeToo movement and the Monica Lewinsky scandal. Despite the friendly overture, Mr. Clinton took the same tone as in earlier interviews. CBSN's primary night panel - CBS News correspondent Ed O'Keefe, CBSN contributor Caitlin Huey-Burns of RealClearPolitics, Republican strategist Leslie Sanchez, and Democratic strategist Hari Sevugan -- discusses Mr. Clinton's recent comments.
Deadpool crashes "Late Show," trash-talks Trump
Stephen Colbert had a surprise guest on the "Late Show" when foul-mouthed superhero Deadpool crashed his monologue
Trump, Harris remain tied in battleground states on eve of Election Day
Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are blitzing battleground states the day before polls open for Election Day 2024.
All the battleground states to watch during the 2024 election
Seven battleground states, which which could swing to either the Democrats or Republicans, hold the keys to the 2024 election between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.
Boeing machinists accept labor contract, ending 7-week strike
Boeing sweetened its offer to thousands of striking factory workers, leading machinists union to back the deal.
With election anxieties high, accepting defeat offers hope for democracy
While there may not be a cure for our national angst, there is still one thing that works — fair play.
Elon Musk's $1 million voter sweepstakes may continue, judge says
A judge in Pennsylvania ruled Elon Musk's PAC's $1 million voter sweepstakes can continue through Tuesday's election.
Music legend Quincy Jones dies at 91
Quincy Jones, the multi-talented music legend who collaborated with everyone from Michael Jackson to Frank Sinatra, has died at 91, his family announced.
Tropical Storm Rafael forms in the Caribbean, expected to further strengthen
A hurricane warning is in effect for the Cayman Islands and a hurricane watch was issued for parts of Cuba. Jamaica is under a tropical storm watch as Tropical Storm Rafael churns north.
Sheriff's lieutenant apologizes for saying he "won't help Democrats"
Lt. John Rodgers said on Facebook that he would not help Democrats and would require proof of who a person voted for before providing them aid.
What to know about fluoride in water following RFK Jr.'s health claims
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s recent comments on fluoride are prompting questions about its safety in drinking water. Here's what to know.
U.S.
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Boeing machinists accept labor contract, ending 7-week strike
Boeing sweetened its offer to thousands of striking factory workers, leading machinists union to back the deal.
Cargo ship launched to space station with science gear, holiday treats
With an Election Day docking, the cargo ship will deliver 3 tons of supplies and equipment, including an unusual wooden satellite.
Georgia State Election Board chair discusses conspiracies, threats and more
Georgia State Election Board Chair John Fervier said that threats against the board were "spiking" in August and September but have "significantly reduced" recently.
With election anxieties high, accepting defeat offers hope for democracy
While there may not be a cure for our national angst, there is still one thing that works — fair play.
Do you need photo ID to vote for the 2024 election?
As voters prepare to make their final decision in the 2024 presidential race, here's a breakdown of voter ID laws by state.
MoneyWatch
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Boeing machinists accept labor contract, ending 7-week strike
Boeing sweetened its offer to thousands of striking factory workers, leading machinists union to back the deal.
Here are the 28 states where workers are guaranteed time off to vote
Without a federal law ensuring workers can take time off to vote, some states have stepped up with Election Day voting leave laws.
Election outcome could bring big changes to Medicare
How the U.S. election plays out could have a major impact on the millions of Americans enrolled in Medicare. Here's what to know.
Here's how much Kamala Harris is worth — it isn't just from politics
Beyond her decades in politics, the vice president's earnings include book royalties and investments.
How much prize money do the New York City marathon winners get?
New York City marathon top winners will each earn six figures for outpacing their competitors in the race Sunday.
Politics
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With election anxieties high, accepting defeat offers hope for democracy
While there may not be a cure for our national angst, there is still one thing that works — fair play.
Do you need photo ID to vote for the 2024 election?
As voters prepare to make their final decision in the 2024 presidential race, here's a breakdown of voter ID laws by state.
As a mom of 2 on the campaign trail, I think about elections differently now
I've covered four presidential campaigns, but this one is my first as a mom. This election of a lifetime comes at a precious time in my sons' lives.
Can you register to vote on Election Day? Maps show state-by-state rules
In some states, voter registration deadlines have already passed, but nearly half the states allow same-day registration on Election Day for those who still want to register and vote.
Elon Musk's $1 million voter sweepstakes may continue, Pa. judge says
A judge in Pennsylvania ruled Elon Musk's PAC's $1 million voter sweepstakes can continue through Tuesday's election.
HealthWatch
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What to know about fluoride in water following RFK Jr.'s health claims
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s recent comments on fluoride are prompting questions about its safety in drinking water. Here's what to know.
Last-minute tips for coping with election stress, according to experts
As tensions mount ahead of Election Day 2024, here are some last-minute tips to ease stress and anxiety, according to experts.
"Dawson's Creek" alum James Van Der Beek announces cancer diagnosis
The "Dawson's Creek" alum shared the news on Sunday and said that despite the diagnosis, there is "reason for optimism, and I'm feeling good."
How people in recovery hope to change the political landscape
Run for Recovery, a new program, offers a boot camp for people in recovery from substance use who dream of holding political office.
Idaho public health department restricted from giving COVID-19 vaccines
Experts say Southwest District Health in Idaho is the first public health department in the nation to be restricted from giving COVID-19 vaccines.
World
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Gunmen storm hospital, kill patient and 2 police officers
The attackers shot a man recovering from a gunshot wound more than 10 times, then killed officers who tried to stop them, officials said.
Volcano eruption burns homes, killing at least 10 on Indonesian island
Indonesian volcano Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki, one of the "husband and wife mountains" on Flores island, erupts, covering villages in thick ash and hot embers.
Iran reportedly arrests female university student who stripped in protest
Amnesty International calls on Iran to free woman said to have been "violently arrested after she removed her clothes in protest" of harassment by authorities.
Top climber dies in fall on Nepal peak after making historic ascent
"I rappelled down to him and stayed with him for four hours until his light faded," Ondrej Huserka's climbing partner said in an emotional Facebook post.
Biden lauds Moldova election as win for democracy over Russian interference
President Biden lauds Moldovan incumbent Maia Sandu's reelection, saying "Russia sought to undermine" the country's democratic institutions for months.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
From the archives: Music legend Quincy Jones
Producer, composer and arranger Quincy Jones died Sunday, November 3, 2024, at age 91. In this "Sunday Morning" report that originally aired on March 9, 2008, correspondent John Blackstone talked with the impresario about his indelible mark on contemporary music - from being hired by Lionel Hampton at age 15, to his collaborations with icons like Frank Sinatra, to spotting the untapped potential of a young Michael Jackson.
Cole Hauser on "Yellowstone" character
Actor Cole Hauser joins "CBS Mornings" to discuss the return of the hit series "Yellowstone," the Dutton family's fight to protect their land, and his role as Rip Wheeler.
Music legend Quincy Jones dies at 91
Quincy Jones, the multi-talented music legend who collaborated with everyone from Michael Jackson to Frank Sinatra, has died at 91, his family announced.
"Dawson's Creek" alum James Van Der Beek announces cancer diagnosis
The "Dawson's Creek" alum shared the news on Sunday and said that despite the diagnosis, there is "reason for optimism, and I'm feeling good."
U.K. prosecutors mull whether to charge Russell Brand over sex assault allegations
In September 2023, British media outlets Channel 4 and the Sunday Times published claims by four women of being sexually assaulted or raped by Russell Brand between 2006 and 2013.
Technology
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Technology
Officials sound alarm over fake election videos
Three top government agencies are calling out two fabricated videos spreading lies about early voting, and they say a familiar foe is to blame. Nicole Sganga has more.
In Elon Musk's "election integrity" community on X, false claims proliferate
Elon Musk is encouraging X users to report instances of voter fraud in a new group on the platform. Many of the posts are unsubstantiated or false.
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.
Reddit stock price soars after social media player reports rare profit
Reddit's stock leaps nearly 40% after the social media company reported a quarterly profit amid strong user growth.
Report probes phone companies over robocalls
While scam phone calls have slightly decreased in the last three years, scam texts have tripled. A consumer report found that phone companies need to do more to prevent robocalls and texts for customers. CBS News correspondent Nancy Chen has more.
Science
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Science
How 2024 races may affect U.S. climate policy
The presidential race and high-profile congressional contests may be dominating election coverage and fundraising, but many local and state elections are poised to affect the nation's progress on climate action and the shift toward clean energy. CBS News national correspondent Dave Malkoff has more.
Halloween weather breaks records
East Coast and southern U.S. states experienced high temperatures this Halloween, with the heat forecast set to break records. CBS News 24/7 anchor Lana Zak reports on the weather and how New Yorkers celebrated the festivities.
New research on climate and extreme weather
A new report from the World Weather Attribution group has found that the 10 deadliest weather events of the last 20 years were intensified by manmade climate change. CBS News climate correspondent David Schecter has more.
The Climate Election: Transportation, explained
Transportation is a lifeline, but experts say it's aging, underfunded and unable to withstand more frequent and intense extreme weather events. And if changes aren't made quickly, the EPA says the costs will be "steep," with hundreds of billions of dollars of damage every year.
The Climate Election: Disaster recovery
Hurricane Helene is one of the deadliest hurricanes to make landfall in the mainland U.S. For many places across Florida, Tennessee and the Carolinas, recovery could take months or even years — and the next president will play a vital role in what that process looks like when they take office in three months. Here's what to know about Project 2025, former President Donald Trump's and Vice President Kamala Harris' stances on extreme weather, disaster recovery, and the root of the increasing frequency and power of storms — climate change.
Crime
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Gunmen storm hospital, kill patient and 2 police officers
The attackers shot a man recovering from a gunshot wound more than 10 times, then killed officers who tried to stop them, officials said.
Ex-officer found guilty in shooting death of Black man who was holding keys
A former police officer in Columbus, Ohio, who shot and killed Andre Hill has been found guilty in the shooting.
2 women, boy shot dead at altar to folk saint cult "Holy Death"
A leader of the folk saint cult was gunned down along with another woman and child at an altar to the skeletal figure, authorities said.
U.K. prosecutors mull whether to charge Russell Brand over sex assault allegations
In September 2023, British media outlets Channel 4 and the Sunday Times published claims by four women of being sexually assaulted or raped by Russell Brand between 2006 and 2013.
A couple's first date ended in horror after both were shot; only one survived.
During their first date, Leslie Reeves and Chris Smith were ambushed in his Illinois home – both shot in the head. A crime scene investigator described it as one of the most horrific crime scenes he's been to.
Space
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Cargo ship launched to space station with science gear, holiday treats
With an Election Day docking, the cargo ship will deliver 3 tons of supplies and equipment, including an unusual wooden satellite.
The Taurid meteor showers will peak a week apart in November
Two sister meteor showers are already flashing across night skies — and will peak a week apart.
"Halloween comet" disintegrates after flying close to the sun, video shows
NASA confirmed its sun-observing spacecraft captured the moment when the comet Atlas broke into chunks this week as it passed close to the sun.
Chinese space station gets new crew
A Chinese spacecraft carrying a three-person crew, including the country's first female space engineer, has successfully docked with China's orbiting space station. The launch comes as Beijing works to expand its space exploration and put a person on the moon by 2030.
China's space station gets new crew as Beijing advances Xi's "space dream"
A new crew of three Chinese astronauts, including the country's only woman spaceflight engineer, entered the Tiangong space station following an early morning launch into orbit.
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 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.
Evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case
A look at the evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case; plus, newly revealed letters from the man police say wanted to be like fictional serial killer Dexter Morgan.
Clues and evidence in the John McCabe case
A teenager's murder in Lowell, Massachusetts, goes unsolved for more than 40 years -- were the clues there all along?
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
FBI ramping up security ahead of Election Day
Law enforcement and intelligence agencies across the federal government are assembling operation centers in preparation for Election Day. CBS News' David Becker, Nicole Sganga and Catherine Cole have more.
Larry Hogan assesses state of his Senate race
Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan is hoping to flip the state's open Senate seat from blue to red. Hogan joins CBS News to assess the state of his campaign one day out from Election Day.
Migrants anxiously monitoring U.S. election
Immigration is one of the leading issues in the 2024 presidential race. The outcome of the election could dramatically change U.S. border policy, and impact thousands of migrants hoping to enter America. CBS News immigration and politics reporter Camilo Montoya-Galvez traveled to northern Mexico to speak to those anxiously monitoring the election from the other side of the border.
U.S. intelligence agencies prepare for Nov. 5
The FBI says its election command center is staffed 24/7 to deal with any election-related security issues that pop up in the coming days. CBS News contributors Sam Vinograd and Andrew Boyd join to discuss what you should know about the possible threats to the election.
Debunking conspiracy theories before Nov. 5
Disinformation is still spreading in the final hours before Election Day. CBS News Confirmed executive editor Rhona Tarrant joins to debunk some of the latest conspiracy theories.