CNN 5 Things

Republican lawmakers are gearing up for crucial leadership votes, with some surprising picks from Trump stirring controversy. In Idaho, a group of women fights back against stringent abortion laws through a landmark lawsuit. Meanwhile, a Massachusetts Air National Guard member faces consequences for leaking classified information. And in lighter news, People magazine has crowned the next Sexiest Man Alive, sending fans abuzz.

The US State Department discusses aid conditions in Gaza and the lack of legal violations by Israel. President-elect Trump's potential plans to abolish the Department of Education raise eyebrows. A federal judge strikes down a law enforcing biblical content in schools. Cryptocurrency is poised for a big boost under Trump, sparking excitement among investors. Plus, an amazing initiative in Kazakhstan aims to revive the Siberian tiger population!

Tensions rise as the U.S. pressures Israel to aid Gaza, with President Biden meeting Israeli leaders. Secretary of State Blinken travels to Brussels amidst concerns over changing U.S. foreign policies. The resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury over a scandal raises important questions about accountability. Tips are shared to combat the increasing problem of deepfake AI porn. Also discussed are protests against a community theater's performance of 'The Diary of Anne Frank' highlighting growing antisemitism.

Legal challenges abound for Donald Trump as his hush money case continues to develop. Congress reconvenes, facing crucial decisions and potential government shutdowns. Meanwhile, Biden's climate rule raises eyebrows, posing challenges for future administrations. On an unexpected note, there's a spike in demand for emergency contraceptives, driven by concerns over reproductive health regulations. Additionally, firefighters battle large wildfires on both coasts, showcasing the ongoing environmental crisis.

The legal saga surrounding Trump's hush money case is heating up as a judge prepares to make a pivotal ruling. In a tragic turn of events, 35 lives were lost in China when a car crashed into a crowd. Meanwhile, at the UN climate conference, Azerbaijan's president shockingly termed oil and gas a 'gift of the god.' Additionally, a significant discovery of 80 illegal firearms, including ghost guns, has sparked a manhunt, highlighting growing concerns over unregulated weapons.

President-elect Donald Trump is making waves with his cabinet picks for Homeland Security and Secretary of State. Lawmakers are reconvening for critical Senate and House races. Meanwhile, Israel has missed an important aid deadline set by the U.S., and Haiti is grounding all international flights due to safety concerns. Plus, South Korea’s world leader is adopting unusual approaches to prepare for a Trump presidency, highlighting shifting diplomatic strategies at a time of global tension.

The Biden administration is racing against time to secure climate policies before potential changes next year. A jury has delivered a pivotal verdict in the Delphi murder trial, raising eyebrows across the nation. Unexpected election results in New York City are reshaping the political landscape. Meanwhile, home-buyers are turning to unconventional sources like Amazon and Facebook Marketplace for their future homes. In a dramatic turn, a Spirit Airlines flight was hit by gunfire while landing in Haiti, prompting serious concerns for air travel safety.

The world's biggest climate conference has sparked discussions about potential shifts in US policy under a new administration. Wildfires continue to threaten the Northeast, with containment efforts underway amid historic drought. Changes to over-the-counter decongestants could be on the horizon, impacting your pharmacy options. And don’t miss the spectacular meteor shower lighting up the night sky!

Get the scoop on President-elect Trump's cabinet choices and his plans for a populist agenda. Discover the implications of possible West Bank annexation as tensions rise in the region. In Ukraine, the president battles against 50,000 Russian troops, revealing a complex geopolitical landscape. Meanwhile, the cryptocurrency market is buzzing with Bitcoin reaching record highs, highlighting the former president's endorsement and family ties to the crypto craze. It's a mix of politics, conflict, and market dynamics.

Tensions are rising as the GOP squares off for Senate leadership, while the Kremlin denies any Trump-Putin discussions about Ukraine. Qatar is stepping back from mediating between Israel and Hamas, adding another layer of complexity to the region. Meanwhile, the concept of 'doom spending' is explored, shedding light on why many Americans are splurging despite uncertainty. Lastly, a lighthearted segment delves into the Dallas Cowboys' recent curtain call, blending sports with current affairs.