1. SOCCER HOST CONTROVERSY

FIFA has officially chosen Saudi Arabia to host the 2034 World Cup, despite criticism over the country’s human rights record. Saudi Arabia was the only candidate, and the decision was approved during an online FIFA meeting. This continues the country’s heavy spending on sports, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as part of a plan to modernize its economy and global image. Supporters, like soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo, praised the decision, but rights groups like Amnesty International called it dangerous, warning of risks to workers’ rights and safety during preparations. Saudi Arabia will spend billions to build futuristic stadiums and infrastructure, but critics accuse the kingdom of “sportswashing,” using sports to distract from its human rights issues. The choice comes after FIFA fast-tracked the bidding process and allowed only countries in Asia and Oceania to apply. This sparked backlash, as many believe FIFA didn’t learn from criticisms of Qatar’s controversial preparations for the 2022 World Cup. The tournament’s timing may also face challenges, as Saudi Arabia’s hot summers and the holy month of Ramadan could force changes to the schedule. Look up Saudi Arabia’s government and what life is like in the country, including the human rights violations the country is accused of. Then, write a paragraph summarizing what you learned and why it may concern some about Saudi Arabia hosting the World Cup.

2. POLITICAL PLAYLIST

New Jersey politician Josh Gottheimer, who’s running for governor, recently shared a list of his top songs for the year, which featured only Bruce Springsteen songs. However, people quickly realized the list was fake because the formatting didn’t match Spotify’s typical “Wrapped” results. Gottheimer admitted to creating the list himself but defended his love for Springsteen, saying his dog’s name is even “Rosalita” after one of Springsteen’s songs. He explained that the list was meant as a fun holiday post and that his actual Spotify Wrapped showed a mix of artists, including Billy Joel and Taylor Swift, alongside Springsteen. Despite the mix-up, Gottheimer’s Springsteen fandom is well known, and he even used his music during his campaign events. Analyze this story and consider the implications of what Gottheimer did. Do you think it was a fun post that some people mistook for being real, or could his creating a fake Spotify Wrapped list hurt his credibility as a politician? Write a paragraph about your answer, using facts from the story to support your position.

3. SETTLEMENT BENEFITS TRUMP LIBRARY

ABC News has agreed to pay $15 million to Donald Trump’s presidential library to settle a defamation lawsuit. The lawsuit stemmed from an incorrect statement made by anchor George Stephanopoulos in March 2024. He wrongly claimed Trump had been found “liable for rape,” which was not true according to court rulings. As part of the settlement, ABC will also pay $1 million in legal fees. Trump had sued the network and Stephanopoulos after the mistake aired. The $15 million will go toward Trump’s library project, although it will likely cover only a small part of its total cost. Look up the Presidential Library System and where the closest presidential library is to your community. Write a paragraph summary about what presidential libraries are and why the system was created.

4. BIDEN GRANTS CLEMENCY

President Joe Biden granted clemency to approximately 1,540 people on December 13, 2024, making it the largest single-day act of clemency in modern history. Among those pardoned or granted reduced sentences were individuals who had rebuilt their lives and dedicated themselves to helping others. Trynitha Fulton, a New Orleans teacher and nonprofit leader, was pardoned for a payroll fraud conviction from 2008. Her pardon allows her to pursue leadership roles in education while continuing her work supporting at-risk youth. Similarly, Stevoni Doyle, a Utah social worker and former meth addict, overcame her past convictions for drug possession and forgery to build a stable life, support her community, and inspire others struggling with addiction. Another notable story is that of Kelsie Lynn Becklin, who turned her life around after a conviction linked to a bank robbery. She is now a researcher with a doctorate in molecular biosciences, mentoring others transitioning from prison to professional careers. However, some of Biden’s clemency decisions sparked controversy. Rita Crundwell, a former public official from Illinois who embezzled $54 million from her small town, had her sentence commuted, drawing criticism from residents who felt betrayed. Similarly, Michael Conahan, a Pennsylvania judge involved in the “kids-for-cash” scandal, saw his sentence reduced despite the pain his actions caused to countless families. These decisions angered victims and local leaders, who called them a betrayal of justice. While many praised Biden’s actions as acts of mercy and second chances, others criticized them for showing leniency toward individuals who caused severe harm. The clemency decisions reflect the tension between forgiveness and accountability, with some viewing them as hopeful examples of redemption and others as failures to uphold justice. Write your own summary of this story and why this instance of clemency is historic.

5. IMPEACHMENT OVERSEAS

South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached by the country’s parliament on December 14, 2024, after declaring martial law earlier in the month. The martial law lasted just six hours but caused major unrest, with accusations that Yoon violated the constitution and threatened democracy. His powers are now suspended, and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is temporarily in charge while the Constitutional Court decides whether to remove Yoon from office permanently or reinstate him. This decision could take up to 180 days. Yoon’s declaration of martial law involved sending troops to block a parliamentary vote. Critics argue this was an abuse of power meant to suppress lawmakers. Large protests erupted across the country, with many celebrating his impeachment as a victory for democracy. Meanwhile, some of Yoon’s supporters also gathered but grew quiet after the news. If Yoon is removed, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days. His approval rating has dropped to just 11%, and over 70% of South Koreans reportedly support his impeachment. Observers say the case against Yoon focuses on allegations of rebellion, which his presidential immunity does not protect him from. Yoon has been banned from leaving the country, and several high-ranking officials involved in the martial law enforcement have already been arrested. Yoon is South Korea’s third president to face impeachment. His controversial actions have led to significant political and social tension, with some seeing his impeachment as a way to preserve the country’s democratic values. Using your newspaper or online, look up news articles about President Yoon Suk Yeol briefly imposing martial law. Then, write a summary of how that led to his impeachment.