02 JAN 2026: New Year, New US Laws // Trump's Health // Mamdani Becomes Mayor // Global News: China's Silver, US Troops to Ukraine, Venezuela Update, Iran Protests, Microplastics News

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Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this Friday Headline Brief of The Wright Report, Bryan covers new laws taking effect in 2026, easing mortgage rates, major tariff changes, mounting concerns about President Trump's health, the radical transformation of New York City under its new socialist mayor, and fast-moving global developments from China, Ukraine, Venezuela, Iran, Spain, and the medical world.

Good News for Homebuyers and New Laws for 2026:
Mortgage rates opened the year at 6.15 percent, down sharply from last year. Trump's Triple B bill now allows a tax deduction of up to ten thousand dollars in interest for Made in the USA vehicles. States also rolled out new laws, including social media limits for children in Virginia and Nebraska, expanded unemployment benefits for mental health claims in Illinois, and sharply different approaches to gender dysphoria in Colorado and New Hampshire.

White House Adjusts Tariffs and Deployments:
The administration delayed steep tariffs on furniture and cabinetry and rolled back anti-dumping duties on Italian pasta following talks with Italy's prime minister. Trump is also withdrawing National Guard troops from Los Angeles, Chicago, and Portland after a Supreme Court ruling narrowed his authority unless he invokes the Insurrection Act.

Questions About Trump's Health:
The Wall Street Journal reports modest concern among Trump's family and advisors as he enters the second year of his term at age seventy-nine. Trump dismissed the worries, joking about his hearing and explaining his long-standing use of aspirin despite doctors recommending a lower dose.

New York City's Radical Shift:
Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as mayor of New York City, placing his hand on the Quran and naming a former al-Qaeda defense attorney as chief counsel. He was sworn in by Senator Bernie Sanders, while socialist outlet Jacobin declared the moment a chance to dismantle capitalism nationwide. Bryan argues the development represents a profound ideological takeover of America's largest city and financial center.

China Escalates the Mineral Wars:
Beijing is restricting silver exports through a new licensing system, tightening global supply just as it has done with rare earth minerals. China is stockpiling silver for industrial use and currency support, raising prices worldwide and intensifying competition over strategic resources.

Ukraine, Venezuela, and Iran Edge Closer to Conflict:
President Zelenskyy claims discussions are underway for U.S. troops to deploy to Ukraine after a peace deal, a claim the White House has not confirmed. In Venezuela, U.S. forces killed additional narco traffickers and surged elite aviation and ground units into the region as oil tankers flee sanctions. In Iran, nationwide protests entered their sixth day, with crowds chanting against the Ayatollah as economic conditions deteriorate.

Europe's Populist Surge Continues:
Spain's Vox Party doubled its representation in regional elections, pulling votes from Socialists while traditional conservatives resist coalition talks. Bryan notes the same elite-versus-populist split now defines politics across much of Europe.

Medical Warning on Microplastics:
Researchers at UC Riverside found evidence that microplastic exposure in men may increase metabolic disease risk in their children. The findings add to growing concerns about plastics, particularly when heating food in plastic containers.

"And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32

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