Welcome to the daily briefing. This morning’s breaking news is:
nicole farato I’m listening to Harry Styles’ new album. First Friday is news about Kristi Noem’s replacement. Don’t forget to “move forward” this weekend.
Who is Markwayne Mullin?
Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin will replace Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security following a number of controversies, from the “eye-popping” price of warehouse detention to defending the murder of American citizens by federal agents.
President Donald Trump called Marin, a Republican, a “MAGA warrior” in a social media post, referencing his professional career in mixed martial arts and his identity as the only Native American in the Senate.
President Trump’s dismissal of the top immigration official has spurred confusion over the administration’s central plan for a second term, and has once again focused attention on the deportation drive, which has faced setbacks amid fierce opposition.
More news you need to know right now
2026 Winter Olympics
If you miss the excitement of the Olympics…
There are many other things to see at the Winter Olympics. The 2026 Winter Paralympic Games kick off on Friday, with more than 600 Para athletes competing in six sports and 79 medal events.
baseball
Home run!
With each passing edition, the World Baseball Classic gets bigger and bigger. The 2026 World Baseball Classic begins in earnest on Friday with eight games. The U.S. team, hoping to build on its 2023 runner-up finish, begins its matchup against Brazil in Houston at 8 p.m. ET. The world championships will be held at a time when President Trump has said that baseball is currently “not that hot.”
before you go
Have feedback about the daily briefing? Email Nicole at NFallert@usatoday.com.
