This Morning’s Top Headlines – Dec. 11 | Morning News NOW

Politics & Policy - The U S may respond to Venezuela, vague details but escalation in pressure campaign [2] - Trump administration under pressure to share files from 2019 case related to Ghislaine Maxwell [3][4] - Trump administration launched a "Gold Visa" program, allowing individuals to pay for U S residency [5][6] - Democratic proposal for a three-year extension of tax credits faces challenges [7][8] - House passed a policy bill with 115 Democrats voting with Republicans, facing drama on the House floor [10] Immigration & Border Security - ICE agents are conducting new push practices amid arrests of American citizens during immigration operations [13] - Minnesota is experiencing tension and fear within the Somali American community due to immigration operations [15][16] Financial Markets & Economy - The Federal Reserve lowered interest rates by a quarter point (0 25%) [17] - The Fed Funds Rate is now around 4 4%, with inflation gauge (PCE) running hotter than the 2% target at 2 8% [19] - The Fed cut rates because liquidity/reserves were falling low, aiming to ensure the stability of the financial system [19][20] - Fed Chair Jerome Powell's term ends in May, with speculation about Kevin Hassett as a potential replacement [20][21] Natural Disasters & Weather - Washington State is experiencing evacuations due to flooding, with homes and farms under water [22] - Pacific Northwest is under flood watch due to a surge of rain [22] - Winter alerts are in effect for 17 million people, with lake effect snow impacting areas downwind of the Great Lakes [24]