CBS Evening News, December 14, 2020
U.S. administers first doses of Pfizer coronavirus vaccine; Norah O'Donnell reflects on the pandemic.
Joe Biden
CBS Evening News, December 15, 2020
Vaccine distribution expands amid record COVID hospitalizations; Child's quest for answers about coronavirus pandemic takes unexpected turn
Biden urges booster shots as Omicron spreads
The Biden administration is working on its response to the Omicron variant as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourages all Americans to get a COVID vaccine booster. Chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes joins CBSN AM with more news from Washington.
Biden says Omicron variant is "cause for concern, not a cause for panic"
"Sooner or later, we're going to see cases of this new variant here in the United States," the president said.
Biden says Omicron variant is "not a cause for panic"
President Biden urged Americans to stay calm in response to the new COVID variant Omicron, saying it's "cause for concern, not a cause for panic." It's not yet clear whether the variant spreads more easily or causes more severe infections. Errol Barnett reports.
Global leaders fear spread of Omicron variant
U.S. officials are imposing travel restrictions for non-U.S. citizens from South Africa and seven other nations to slow the spread of the Omicron variant. CBS News' Natalie Brand reports on why these officials believe the measures are necessary. Dr. W. Ian Lipkin, a professor of epidemiology and director of the Center for Infection and Immunity at Columbia University, and CBSN's Tanya Rivero discuss the threat posed by the variant and U.S. officials' response to its spread.
White House preps for busy end of the year
President Biden is hoping to pass his Build Back Better social spending plan as a government shutdown and debt ceiling crisis loom. CBS News chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes joins CBSN AM from the White House with more.
Congress faces looming deadlines
Congress is back in session and faces looming deadlines to pass President Joe Biden's social spending bill, fund the government and raise the debt ceiling. CBS News congressional correspondent Nikole Killion joins CBSN's Tanya Rivero for more.
Democrats struggle to energize base for 2022
Less than a year from midterm elections, Democratic leaders are raising alarms over waning support in the party. President Biden's approval ratings have dropped and many progressive party members fear not enough of the major Democratic agenda is being focused on. CBS News political contributor Antjuan Seawright joins CBSN's Tanya Rivero to discuss how the party is working to energize its base.
Iran nuclear deal talks resume
Talks to salvage the Iran nuclear deal resume in Vienna after a five-month hiatus. Kelsey Davenport, the director for nonproliferation policy at the Arms Control Association, joins CBSN's Tanya Rivero with more.
3/22: CBS Evening News
H.R. McMaster out as national security adviser, will be replaced by John Bolton; Study of 3,000 golden retrievers takes aim at high cancer rates.
4/3: CBS Evening News
Joe Biden says he will be more "respectful and mindful" or personal space; Marine Col. Mark Smith remembered for his heartfelt letters from Iraq.
4/25: CBS Evening News
Joe Biden calls Trump's presidency a "threat" to the nation; Special Olympics cheerleading teams compete at the World Championships
4/2: CBS Evening News
Woman accused of lying her way into Mar-a-Lago; History teacher a "hero" to the veterans he's honored over the years.
4/5: CBS Evening News
Trump says "our country is full" during border visit; How a simple act of kindness transformed a boy's birthday.
3/31: CBS Evening News
White House doubles down on Trump's threat to shutdown border; Kids of Courage takes kids skiing
3/27: CBS Evening News
FAA acting administrator grilled over 737 Max crashes; Remembering Ana Real, beloved foreign news editor at CBS News.
7/5: CBS Evening News
Aftershocks felt in California after 6.4 magnitude earthquake; Armless basketball player sets his sight on a new sport
6/20: CBS Evening News
Iran claims shot down drone was over Iranian territory; Crime lab backlog could leave innocent people in jail.
6/21: CBS Evening News
Trump says he called off strike on Iran after learning 150 would likely die; The last student from a small, remote island school graduates.
8/7: CBS Evening News
Biden accuses Trump of encouraging white supremacy; A veteran lost his American flag. Then another veteran stepped up to help.
10/4: CBS Evening News
Iranian hackers targeted U.S. presidential candidates, Microsoft says; Man shares one last thank you for his town's residents.
9/22: CBS Evening News
Trump says he discussed Biden in call with Ukrainian president; Gains made by Afghan women undermined by new president
10/24: CBS Evening News
California wildfire forces thousands to evacuate in Sonoma County; Former hunters helping to save endangered snow leopards.
10/10: CBS Evening News
Prosecutors announce charges against 2 Giuliani associates; How Harvard's debate tournament helps teens find their voice.
Everything we know about Minnesota's massive fraud schemes
A viral social media video has put Minnesota's long-running fraud scandal at the center of the national conversation. Here's what to know.
New Year's celebrations welcome 2026 around the world. See the photos.
New Zealand and Australia were among the first to welcome 2026, but in Sydney and some other cities, the festivities are tinged by grief.
Videos released in Epstein files raise fresh questions about jail footage
A recently released cache of security videos is raising new questions about the prison cameras at the facility where Jeffrey Epstein died in his cell in 2019.
Zohran Mamdani sworn in to become New York City's 112th mayor
In a private ceremony at the abandoned Old City Hall subway station, Mamdani was sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James as the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
Judge voids decision to end legal status of 60,000 immigrants
A U.S. District Court judge issued a summary judgment on Wednesday, finding that the effort to revoke the legal status of tens of thousands of Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans was unlawful
Transcript, video of Jack Smith's testimony on Trump cases released
Former special counsel Jack Smith testified for more than eight hours about the investigations and prosecutions of President Trump.
Body found in Texas identified as missing teen Camila Mendoza Olmos
The Bexar County medical examiner's office determined Camila Mendoza Olmos died by suicide.
These national and regional retailers went out of business in 2025
More than 8,000 stores closed across the U.S. this year, according to retail industry data, including these well-known brands.
U.S.
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Federal appeals court blocks Hawaii's tourist tax on cruise ships
The levy, which would impose a new 11% tax on the gross fares paid by a cruise ship's passenger, was set to go into effect at the start of 2026.
Notable works entering the public domain in 2026
Here are the significant books, films and characters joining the list of works in the public domain on Jan. 1, 2026.
Judge voids decision to end legal status of 60,000 immigrants
A U.S. District Court judge issued a summary judgment on Wednesday, finding that the effort to revoke the legal status of tens of thousands of Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans was unlawful
Some states set to impose SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods
Starting January 1, food-stamp recipients in five U.S. states will face restrictions on using the benefits to buy some sugary foods.
Trump administration takes back control of D.C. golf courses
President Trump, who loves to golf, has floated the possibility of redoing the district's courses.
MoneyWatch
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Federal appeals court blocks Hawaii's tourist tax on cruise ships
The levy, which would impose a new 11% tax on the gross fares paid by a cruise ship's passenger, was set to go into effect at the start of 2026.
Some states set to impose SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods
Starting January 1, food-stamp recipients in five U.S. states will face restrictions on using the benefits to buy some sugary foods.
Mortgage rates fall to their lowest level in 2025
The average cost of a conventional 30-year U.S. mortgage continues to edge down, while rates on other home loans fell to less than 5.5%.
These national and regional retailers went out of business in 2025
More than 8,000 stores closed across the U.S. this year, according to retail industry data, including these well-known brands.
Trump Mobile pushes back release of gold-colored phone
The Trump Organization announced the $499 phone and wireless plan this summer, promising to deliver "all-American service."
Politics
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Zohran Mamdani sworn in at abandoned NYC subway station, becoming city's 112th mayor
In a private ceremony at the abandoned Old City Hall subway station, Mamdani was sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James as the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve.
Chief Justice Roberts says Constitution remains "firm and unshaken"
Chief Justice John Roberts says the Constitution remains a sturdy pillar for the country, a message that comes after a tumultuous year in the nation's judicial system.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
Judge voids decision to end legal status of 60,000 immigrants
A U.S. District Court judge issued a summary judgment on Wednesday, finding that the effort to revoke the legal status of tens of thousands of Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans was unlawful
Some states set to impose SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods
Starting January 1, food-stamp recipients in five U.S. states will face restrictions on using the benefits to buy some sugary foods.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
Some states ban junk food from SNAP benefits
In 2026, several states are set to prohibit individuals from purchasing certain junk food items using their federal benefits. Meg Oliver has the details.
Flu cases spiking this holiday season, CDC data shows
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 32 jurisdictions are showing "high" or "very high" levels of flu.
New California tortilla law aims to decrease birth defects in Latino babies
Mom-and-pop shops will be exempt from this change, but big manufacturers in California will need to start adding folic acid to tortillas beginning January 1.
Advances in treatment for Alzheimer's disease
The number of Americans with Alzheimer's disease is expected to double from 7 million in 2020 to 14 million by 2060, according to the CDC. However, advances in treatment options are giving more people hope in slowing the decline. Dr. Jon LaPook breaks it down.
Flu cases skyrocket across the U.S
Nearly five million flu cases have been reported nationwide, the CDC estimates, and at least 1,900 people have died from the virus. "CBS Saturday Morning" has more on why this year's strain is breaking records.
World
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France defends granting George Clooney and his family French citizenship
George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, were granted French citizenship because "they contribute, through their distinguished actions, to France's international influence and cultural outreach," the French government said.
British boxer Anthony Joshua released from hospital after crash in Nigeria
The two-time former heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist was involved in a fatal road crash near Lagos on Monday.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
U.S. sanctions 4 firms, oil tankers with ties to Venezuela
The latest wave of sanctions targets oil traders and vessels that are helping prop up President Nicolás Maduro's regime, the Treasury Department said.
New Year's celebrations welcome 2026 around the world. See the photos.
New Zealand and Australia were among the first to welcome 2026, but in Sydney and some other cities, the festivities are tinged by grief.
Entertainment
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France defends granting George Clooney and his family French citizenship
George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, were granted French citizenship because "they contribute, through their distinguished actions, to France's international influence and cultural outreach," the French government said.
Notable works entering the public domain in 2026
Here are the significant books, films and characters joining the list of works in the public domain on Jan. 1, 2026.
Noah Wyle on authenticity of "The Pitt"
The hit series "The Pitt" has earned praise for its realistic look at the pressures facing health care workers. Chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook spoke to the star of the show, Noah Wyle, for "CBS Sunday Morning." Wyle talked about how the cast prepared for their roles beyond learning their lines before shooting the series even began.
Here's who's performing on New Year's Eve to ring in 2026
Here's what to know about the lineup of performances scheduled for New Year's Eve, as crowds gather in Times Square to ring in 2026.
Isiah Whitlock Jr., actor known for his roles in "The Wire" and "Veep," dies at 71
Isiah Whitlock Jr. is perhaps best known for his role as state Sen. R. Clayton "Clay" Davis on HBO's "The Wire."
Technology
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Technology
Economic oasis emerges in the Arizona desert
Arizona is fast becoming a major hub for computer chip production thanks to what's being called the largest foreign direct investment in U.S. history. Kris Van Cleave takes us to a sprawling campus in Phoenix that is providing thousands of jobs while reducing America's reliance on overseas products.
OpenAI hiring for head safety executive to mitigate AI risks
The company's investment in safety prevention comes amid growing concerns over the potential harm of artificial intelligence.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Instacart ending AI price tests for retailers
Instacart says its ending its controversial system of using AI price tests for retailers. Earlier this month, an investigation by Consumer Reports and progressive think tank Groundwork Collaborative found that Instacart's algorithmic pricing charged various prices for the same item from the same store. Jo Ling Kent reports.
Tech companies push for data centers
Massive tech companies wanting to build more data centers in the U.S. are lobbying for support among Americans, according to a recent report by POLITICO. Gabby Miller joins CBS News with more on her reporting.
Science
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2025 was so hot it pushed Earth past critical climate change mark
2025 was the third hottest year on record and pushed Earth past a critical climate change mark, scientists say.
Major climate research center on Trump administration chopping block
The Trump administration intends to dismantle one of the world's leading climate research institutions, in Boulder, Colorado, over what it said were concerns about "climate alarmism."
Researchers capture video of rare polar bear adoption
The footage of a bear caring for an adopted cub was captured during the annual polar bear migration along the Western Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba.
Dinosaur tracks showing "herds moving in synchrony" found in Italy
Most of the footprints are elongated and made by bipeds. The best-preserved ones bear traces of at least four toes.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
Crime
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Crime
Fallout grows over freezing of child care funds
After the Trump administration paused federal assistance to child care centers in Minnesota, parents are now wondering if their kids' day care is in jeopardy, as the government investigates fraud claims. Jonah Kaplan has been following this developing story.
Epstein survivors decry delay in releasing files
There may be millions of documents the Justice Department still needs to release from the case against convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. By law, those files were required to be made public nearly two weeks ago. Scott MacFarlane has the latest.
Day care in Minneapolis vandalized after viral video purporting fraud
A Minneapolis day care says that vandals damaged the facility early this week, after a YouTube video purporting to expose fraud among day cares in the Twin Cities metro area went viral.
New details on charges against Stefon Diggs
Patriots star Stefon Diggs is facing charges of strangulation, assault and battery following an incident in Massachusetts earlier this month. Diggs' attorney, David Meier, said in a statement that the wide receiver "categorically denies" the allegations and "looks forward to establishing the truth" in court. CBS News Boston's Aaron Parseghian has more.
New Orleans marks 1 year since terror attack
New Orleans is marking one year since 14 people were killed and dozens more were injured in a terror attack on the city's iconic Bourbon Street. Kati Weis spoke to the family of one of the victims about how they're remembering their loved one.
Space
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Space
NASA's search for next lunar rover
NASA astronauts took their first drive on the moon 54 years ago. Now, three companies are competing for a NASA contract to build a new lunar rover for use starting with the Artemis 5 mission in 2030. Kris Van Cleave reports.
Artemis 2 astronauts rehearse countdown for upcoming moon launch
NASA is gearing up to send four Artemis astronauts on looping test flight around the moon in 2026.
Woman is first wheelchair user launched into space
A German aerospace engineer made history Saturday, becoming the first wheelchair user to go into space when she took a 10-minute trip aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
Blue Origin safely launches wheelchair user to space and back
German engineer Michaela Benthaus is the first person with a significant physical handicap to reach space.
Jared Isaacman, billionaire who's flown with SpaceX, confirmed to lead NASA
President Trump withdrew Isaacman's nomination for NASA administrator in April, before nominating him again in November.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Economic oasis emerges in the Arizona desert
Arizona is fast becoming a major hub for computer chip production thanks to what's being called the largest foreign direct investment in U.S. history. Kris Van Cleave takes us to a sprawling campus in Phoenix that is providing thousands of jobs while reducing America's reliance on overseas products.
Fallout grows over freezing of child care funds
After the Trump administration paused federal assistance to child care centers in Minnesota, parents are now wondering if their kids' day care is in jeopardy, as the government investigates fraud claims. Jonah Kaplan has been following this developing story.
Some states ban junk food from SNAP benefits
In 2026, several states are set to prohibit individuals from purchasing certain junk food items using their federal benefits. Meg Oliver has the details.
Epstein survivors decry delay in releasing files
There may be millions of documents the Justice Department still needs to release from the case against convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. By law, those files were required to be made public nearly two weeks ago. Scott MacFarlane has the latest.
Parts of U.S. ushering in new year under snow
As thousands in the U.S. gear up to celebrate the new year, snow and rain are coming down harder in parts of the country. Meteorologist Rob Marciano has the latest forecast.