Jack Smith told Congress Trump was 'most culpable' for Jan 6

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Good evening and welcome to your daily news briefing from The Independent.

The world welcomes 2026, Jack Smith told Congress Trump was 'culpable' for the January 6 riot according to new documents, and Venezuelan security forces have reportedly detained several Americans

Top stories

1 | Trump was 'most culpable' for Jan 6 riot and would have been convicted in court, Jack Smith told Congress

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2 | Venezuelan security forces have detained several Americans since Trump began military campaign

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3 | Trump kicks off New Year's Eve celebrations by telling fellow Republican to 'rot in hell'

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4 | Patriots star Christian Barmore charged with domestic assault

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5 | Texas man accused of attempting to fund and supply bomb materials to ISIS after undercover NYPD sting

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The Big Question 

It's New Year's Eve in New York City. The air is frigid. You had to go to the bathroom hours ago but held it because you didn't want to lose your spot. People are packed in Times Square like sardines, trying to keep warm.

For some, this is a dream scenario, but for others, the thought of arriving hours early, braving crowds, and denying the urge to relieve yourself is a nightmare.

For the latter, a VIP-style party that gives you a clear view of the ball drop while offering key staples like alcohol, bathrooms, and warmth is a far better solution.

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WATCH 

AI videos to Oval Office clashes: Trump moments that defined 2025

STAT OF THE DAY

$100 million

In the coming year, ICE plans to spend $100 million to recruit individuals who may be a good fit to assist in furthering President Donald Trump's mass deportation agenda

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"At The Independent, we've always believed journalism should do more than describe the world – it should try to improve it.

This Christmas, we're asking for your help again as we launch our new campaign with the charity Missing People – the SafeCall appeal.

Every year, more than 70,000 children in the UK are reported missing. The misery that follows – for the child, for the family, for the community – is often hidden. Too many of these young people have nowhere to turn when they need help most. SafeCall will change that. Our goal is to raise £165,000 to help Missing People launch this new, free service – designed with the input of young people themselves – offering round-the-clock support, advice and a route to safety."

QUOTE OF THE DAY

"I sincerely hope this veto has nothing to do with political retaliation for calling out corruption and demanding accountability"

Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert railed against Trump and insinuated he was retaliating against her for supporting the release of the Epstein files, after he vetoed a clean water bill 

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