Lloyd Austin, Pentagon chief, slams China’s drive for hypersonic weapons

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Thursday that China’s pursuit of hypersonic weapons “increases tensions in the region” and vowed the U.S. would maintain its capability to deter potential threats posed by China. Austin made the remarks in Seoul following annual security talks with his … The Washington Times stories: White House

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Joe Biden considering new travel rules to deal with omicron variant: Report

President Biden is looking to impose a more stringent requirement for travelers entering the U.S. as he preps a Thursday speech on his plan to stave off a winter spike in COVID-19 cases and deal with the omicron threat. A draft proposal would require all travelers to be tested within … The Washington Times stories: White House

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Biden’s new COVID-19 travel ban ignores southern border

As President Biden’s new coronavirus travel ban took effect Monday, security experts say he’s left a glaring hole in his scheme: the southern border.  Visitors coming from South Africa and seven other African nations are now banned from trying to reach the U.S., amid fears of the new omicron variant … The Washington Times stories: White House

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Joe Biden nominates Shalanda Young as White House budget director

President Biden on Wednesday said he will nominate Shalanda Young to serve as White House budget director, a move that will elevate her from an acting role to the permanent post if she is confirmed by the Senate. Mr. Biden said Ms. Young has “continued to impress me and congressional … The Washington Times stories: White House

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‘Bunch of flash without much bang’: Are vaccine mandates worth the hassle?

President Biden’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate is expected to push 23 million workers at large companies to get vaccinated but the political backlash, disruptive legal fight and threat of workplace upheaval over the holiday season beg the question: Is it all worth it? Retail lobbyists and economists say worksite vaccine clinics … The Washington Times stories: White House

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