Joe Biden's Commutation of Federal Death Sentences. President Biden's continued opposition to the death penalty and the political considerations surrounding his clemency actions.

Concerns About the Mental Fitness of Political Leaders. The increasing scrutiny of the mental and physical capabilities of political leaders, particularly older ones, and the challenges of addressing this issue.

Republican Party Dysfunction and Trump's Leadership. The infighting within the Republican party, particularly around leadership and policy, and Trump's impulsive decision-making.

Donald Trump's Geopolitical Ambitions. Trump's desire to change the world map, seemingly through impulsive and unrealistic plans, and the likelihood that these ideas are not going to be implemented.

Trump's Continued Grifting. Trump's ongoing efforts to monetize his brand and presidency and the implications of this.

The Matt Gaetz Ethics Report. The House Ethics Committee's scathing report on Rep. Matt Gaetz's behavior.

House Battle Aftermath: Winners and Losers:

Elon Musk as a Kingmaker: Musk demonstrated significant political influence by effectively killing a bipartisan spending bill through public criticism, without holding public office. Co-president Elon Musk demonstrated his political muscle

Political Divisions and Weakened Leadership: Speaker Mike Johnson emerges as a clear loser, portrayed as weak and unable to control his caucus.

Lara Trump's Senate Bid: Failed Ambition: Lara Trump's decision not to seek a Senate seat in Florida is depicted as a result of not having the support of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

Arizona Legal Case: Fake Elector Scheme: The Arizona fake electors case is progressing

Judicial Appointments: Biden's Success: President Biden has appointed more judges than Trump did in his first term.

Ambassador to the Vatican: Trump’s appointment of Brian Burch, a critic of Pope Francis,

Kristi Noem and Corey Lewandowski: Unqualified Nomination: Kristi Noem's nomination as Secretary of Homeland Security is questioned, she is totally unqualified and about which she knows nothing. She's being advised by Lewandowski.

Political Landscape

Government Funding & Budget Deal: A temporary funding bill was passed to avoid a major government shutdown, funding the government at current levels through March 14 of next year.

Musk's Role and Influence Co-President-elect Musk tweeted approval of the final budget deal, saying "The Speaker did a good job here, given the circumstances. It went from a bill that weighed pounds to a bill that weighed ounces."

Musk also came under criticism for endorsing a German political party that panders to neo-Nazis.

The need to address the federal budget again by March 14 sets up another potential political clash.

Economic Landscape

One-year inflation expectations jumped to 2.9%, the highest in six months.

Rising inflation expectations may reinforce rate worries and negatively affect rate-sensitive stocks.