President-elect Trump announced Linda McMahon, WWE co-founder and wife of Vince McMahon, as his pick for Education Secretary. Trump also selected Matthew Whitaker, former acting Attorney General, as his NATO ambassador, with a focus on Ukraine and NATO defense spending. A powerful "atmospheric river" storm hit Washington state, causing widespread power outages, injuries, and deaths, before moving to California. Venezuelan migrant Jose Ibarra was sentenced to life in prison for the 2023 murder of University of Georgia student Laken Riley, a case that sparked national debate on immigration. Lastly, Susan Smith, convicted of drowning her two sons in 1994, was denied parole, with the parole board citing the impact on the victims' father, who will continue to oppose her release.

Trump taps Matthew Whitaker for NATO ambassador (NPR)

Trump nominates Linda McMahon to lead the Department of Education (AP, CNN)

Deadly storm devastates Northwest U.S., leaves hundreds of thousands without power (Reuters)

Jose Ibarra found guilty of killing UGA student Laken Riley (New York Times)

Susan Smith denied parole (AP)