1. Report: Putin 'aspired to help' Trump
The Russian president interfered in the US presidential election to aid Donald Trump, according to a declassified assessment by the NSA, CIA and FBI. The report was released after Trump met intelligence agency leaders.
Summary
Russia’s goals were to undermine public faith in the US democratic process, denigrate Secretary [Hillary] Clinton, and harm her electability and potential presidency. We further assess Putin and the Russian Government developed a clear preference for President-elect Trump.
- The report
2. Trump meets intelligence leaders
The president-elect did not publicly support the conclusion of Russian interference in the election, but called the meeting “constructive” and pledged to task his administration with creating a 90-day plan to “combat and stop cyberattacks”.
Summary
While Russia, China, other countries, outside groups and people are consistently trying to break through the cyber infrastructure of our governmental institutions, businesses and organizations including the Democrat National Committee, there was absolutely no effect on the outcome of the election including the fact that there was no tampering whatsoever with voting machines.
- Donald Trump
Summary
Ahead of the meeting, Trump told the New York Times the focus on Russia was a “political witch-hunt” and, in a tweet, called for an investigation of leaks to the media.
3. Corker backs Iran deal
The Republican chair of the Senate foreign relations committee said the Trump administration should not and would not “tear up” the 2015 Iranian nuclear agreement, but rather focus on enforcing the deal more strictly.
4. Congress certifies Trump victory
Congress met on Friday to tally the electoral college votes, presided over by vice-president Biden. Some House Democrats sought to object. “It is over,” Biden said at one point.
5. Mexico will pay for wall 'later'
Trump responded after Republican officials indicated Congress and US taxpayers would first foot the bill for his barrier on the southern border, saying this would just be for the “sake of speed” and the funds would be reimbursed.
6. First lady makes last address
Michelle Obama gave an emotional final speech as first lady at an education event at the White House on Friday, delivering a message of hope for young people.
7. How does the cabinet confirmation process work?
There are 21 cabinet positions chosen by Trump that must be confirmed by the Senate. Most are expected to skate through, with the possible exception of Rex Tillerson, the secretary of state nominee.
Here’s your guide to the process
... And another thing:
Wow, the ratings are in and Arnold Schwarzenegger got "swamped" (or destroyed) by comparison to the ratings machine, DJT. So much for....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2017
Summary
I wish you the best of luck and I hope you'll work for ALL of the American people as aggressively as you worked for your ratings.
— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) January 6, 2017
