3 Things To Know Today

1 DC On High Alert Ahead Of Tomorrow’s Inauguration

Tensions are high in the nation's capital ahead of tomorrow’s inauguration of Joe Biden as the 46th president of the United States. Yesterday’s preparations, for example, were interrupted by an alert that turned out to be a false alarm. Officials aren’t just concerned about the public – they’re also vetting National Guard troops to ensure that tomorrow’s festivities won’t see some kind of “insider” attack as well. While tens of thousands usually come to the Capitol to watch, people have been asked to watch the day's events at home. That’s because a good part of the District has been locked down and the National Mall will be closed as an estimated 25-thousand National Guard troops enforce unprecedented security in the wake of the deadly January 6th riot. Acting Homeland Security Secretary Peter Gaynor says high alert aside, security forces have everything under control. “We want to make sure that we don't wish we didn't go far enough,” Gaynor says. “[We have an] impressive array of men and women out there ready to make sure that that transfer happens peacefully."

2 Trump’s Last List Of Pardons Expected Today

President Trump is reportedly planning to pardon as many as 100 people before he exits the White House. Some of those are people connected to Trump, but other clemency bids will be made with criminal justice reform in mind. Trump has already pardoned over two dozen people, including a number of people who were linked to the Russia investigation. While no one’s been confirmed as “on the list,” sources say Trump’s previous plan to issue preemptive pardons for his family – or himself – isn’t happening. As for the rest, Julian Assange is not expected to see a reprieve, but rapper Lil Wayne is. Former Trump confidant Steve Bannon is reportedly 'up in the air.' Beyond that, it’s been reported that many of the coming pardons and commutations will focus more on Trump’s political allies and more criminal justice reform-oriented choices. While the list is expected to be released today, Trump has until Noon tomorrow.

3 Biden Pushing Back As Trump Plans To Lift COVID Travel Restrictions

As President Trump heads out the door, he’s reportedly leaving his successor with a bit of a mess. According to reports, Trump is planning to lift the coronavirus travel restrictions on visitors from Europe, the United Kingdom and Brazil. The administration is expected to say the restrictions will end on January 26th, days after Trump leaves office. Travel restrictions have been in effect since last year – and last week, the CDC said it would require travelers entering the U.S. to provide a negative COVID test before flying. The incoming Biden administration says anyone planning to hop on a plane ought to cool their jets. Incoming press secretary Jen Psaki says it's not the time to be lifting restrictions on international travel. She added they plan to strengthen measures around international travel to slow the spread of the coronavirus.


Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content

News Radio 1200 WOAI Podcasts

See All