CNN 5 Things

President Biden is making headlines by commuting federal death sentences for dozens of inmates. A chilling attack during a Christmas market in Germany raises concerns. The automotive world is abuzz with rumors of a major merger between two giants. In NYC, a tragic incident involving a woman set on fire in the subway highlights urban safety issues. Meanwhile, last-minute holiday shoppers face challenges as strikes affect their shopping experience. Find out how these stories intertwine in today's discussion.

Olivia Kooner, a resident of Burnsville, North Carolina, shares her heart-wrenching experience as a survivor of Hurricane Helene. She recounts the chaos during the storm and the ongoing struggles three months later, including housing instability and inadequate support from FEMA. Olivia discusses the emotional toll of adapting to a new normal, especially during the holidays, and reflects on the divide in her community between long-time residents and newcomers. Her story highlights the resilience of those navigating life as climate refugees.

A traveling musician brings joy across the U.S. through uplifting performances in disaster-affected areas. The youngest World Chess Champion receives a hero's welcome in his hometown. A son honors his beloved Santa father by launching a toy store and giving back to families in need. Innovative research on mouse sperm in space raises questions about human survival beyond Earth. Meanwhile, AI is being harnessed to create personalized music playlists for those with memory loss disorders, showcasing music's power in mental health.

House Speaker Mike Johnson narrowly avoided a government shutdown with a crucial spending bill. Tragedy struck in Germany as a driver attacked a Christmas market, resulting in fatalities. In a significant move, the U.S. engaged with a Syrian rebel leader to discuss minority rights. Meanwhile, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau launched legal action against several banks over fraud issues on Zelle. Lastly, the FDA unveiled new food labeling standards for the first time in thirty years, aiming to enforce healthier eating habits.

House GOP leaders are pushing hard to finalize a funding bill to avert a government shutdown. Meanwhile, Trump intensifies pressure on Europe with tariff threats. A chilling update comes from Indiana, where the killer of two teenage girls is finally sentenced. As winter sets in, a storm system threatens to blanket the East Coast in significant snowfall. On the retail front, major chains like Big Lots and Party City announce store closures, reflecting ongoing challenges in the market.

As the government faces an imminent shutdown, lawmakers are in a frantic scramble for a funding agreement. Economic updates reveal a surprising dip in inflation, while US forces intensify airstrikes against ISIS in Syria. On the education front, President Biden plans to introduce more student debt relief. Plus, researchers have made an exciting discovery of 27 new species in northwestern Peru, showcasing the wonders of biodiversity.

Tensions are high as Republicans scramble to prevent a government shutdown. Meanwhile, baristas at Starbucks and Amazon drivers have hit the picket lines, pushing for better conditions. In shocking news, the U.S. recorded its highest number of deportations in a decade last year. Malaysia has reignited hopes by resuming the search for the missing MH370. Lastly, there's growing pressure on Apple to eliminate a controversial AI feature linked to misinformation.

Republicans are racing against time to avoid a government shutdown after a critical funding proposal is rejected. Luigi Mangione returns to New York facing serious murder charges that could lead to the death penalty. New drone regulations emerge in New Jersey and New York. Meanwhile, U.S. troops are engaged in Syrian discussions on human rights. Adding to the excitement, LeBron James adds yet another milestone to his record-breaking basketball career. Dive into these intriguing developments!

A shocking court appearance unfolds as a suspect in the murder of a healthcare CEO faces justice. Meanwhile, House Republicans unveil a plan to keep the government funded through March. Investigations deepen around a man linked to a Wisconsin school shooting, raising concerns for the community. Political debates heat up over potential cuts to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, igniting discussions on their impact. Additionally, Syria's ongoing power transition adds an international dimension to current events.

Urgent negotiations are underway as a government shutdown looms, with potential fallout from political clashes. Putin expresses a willingness to meet Trump, raising eyebrows over future U.S.-Russia relations. Meanwhile, the Biden administration's fleeting climate efforts face skepticism ahead of crucial decisions. In economic news, unemployment claims stabilize after an earlier holiday spike. On a brighter note, life expectancy in the U.S. shows signs of recovery post-pandemic, highlighting a small victory amidst ongoing challenges.