Below is a selection of articles the Federal Relations team has read this week.
Senate Impeachment Trial: Despite recent revelations of possible damaging evidence from Ambassador John Bolton, former National Security Advisor to President Trump, it appears Senate Republicans will move to swiftly acquit President Trump as early as Friday afternoon or Saturday. The key question has been whether or not Republicans could muster enough votes to block witnesses, which they seem to now be able to do. Updates at Washington Post.
Scientists Working to Understand Coronavirus: Less than two weeks after coronavirus emerged from Wuhan, China, scientists worldwide are making significant headway to understand the virus, including its genetic profile. The global collaboration is being lauded as more potential cases emerge. Meanwhile, the CDC has elevated its travel alert recommending against nonessential travel to all of China and the Department of State has advised travelers not to visit China. Global airlines are also canceling flights to and from mainland China. Global panic has increased as the death toll exceeds 200. More at Inside Higher Ed and Washington Post .
Basketball Legend Kobe Bryant Dies: Kobe Bryant, a basketball star and American pop culture icon, died in a helicopter crash on Sunday with his daughter and several other people. More at NYT.
Supreme Court Lifts Green Card Injunction: In a 5-4 vote, the Supreme Court lifted an injunction barring the Trump Administration from enforcing a “public charge” test to issuing green cards. The test will consider the applicant’s age, level of education, English proficiency, among others. USCIS is expecting to release more information shortly. Full story at Reuters.
Brexit is Happening: At 11:00pm GMT on Friday, January 31st the UK will officially leave the European Union after a years-long and vicious debate over the terms of exit. There is still much work to be done to reconcile domestic divides in the UK and ensure a smooth transition for people and businesses. More at Associated Press.