How Biden is testing the limit of presidential powers in his final days
Jan 7, 2025
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Justin Trudeau's resignation shakes up U.S.-Canada relations as Biden tests presidential powers. There's a focus on the complexities of Biden's offshore drilling ban and its potential challenge from Trump. The dire situation for the unhoused is brought to light with heart-wrenching stories of displacement due to city sweeps. Amid severe weather, individuals face shocking losses, while also tracking promising developments in sports and legal matters. It's a thought-provoking dive into pressing social and political issues.
Biden's permanent ban on offshore drilling aims to secure his environmental legacy, despite potential legal challenges from Trump’s future administration.
The escalating homelessness crisis highlights the urgent need for compassionate policies, as city encampment sweeps leave vulnerable individuals without essential support.
Deep dives
Trudeau's Resignation and Political Climate in Canada
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation after nearly a decade in power, following mounting pressure as his approval ratings plummeted. His government has faced significant challenges, particularly concerning rising living costs, which have resonated with voters and contributed to a desire for political change. As Canada prepares for an upcoming election, the Conservative Party looks poised for a strong challenge, harnessing feelings of discontent similar to those experienced in the U.S. The political landscape reflects a global trend of incumbents being ousted, with voters increasingly seeking alternatives amid economic strains.
Biden's Last-Minute Executive Actions
In the waning days of his presidency, President Biden has taken significant steps to solidify his environmental legacy, including signing a permanent ban on oil and gas drilling across over 625 million acres of federal waters. Although these moves intend to protect natural resources, they have drawn immediate backlash from President-elect Trump, who promises to reverse them once in office. The legal complexities of such reversals are significant, as precedent indicates that Congress may need to be involved in overturning Biden's actions, complicating the process further. Amidst this struggle, Biden's administration has also focused on strengthening Social Security benefits for public sector workers, indicating a broader commitment to social welfare issues despite challenges ahead.
Record Levels of Homelessness and Encampment Sweeps
The homelessness crisis in America has reached alarming heights, with nearly 800,000 individuals lacking adequate housing as of 2023. Cities have been permitted to clear encampments, often without providing adequate solutions or support for those displaced, leading to painful personal stories of loss and trauma. For instance, one woman, Stephanie, lost crucial belongings during a city sweep, highlighting the devastating impact of such policies on vulnerable populations. Experts advocate for a more compassionate approach, emphasizing the need for communication and support as municipalities navigate the complexities of homelessness and its human toll.
On today’s show: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is stepping down, the Globe and Mail reports. Vox’s Ellen Ioanes explains whathis resignation means for the future of U.S.-Canada relations.
The Washington Post examines why Biden’s offshore-drilling ban won’t be easy for Trump to undo. And USA Today looks into who may be getting an increase in Social Security benefits following a bill signed by Biden over the weekend.
Unhoused people in some cities are contending with encampment sweeps that leave them without essentials like Social Security cards and medication. ProPublica reports.