Alvin Bragg Makes History As Manhattan’s First African-American District Attorney

Manhattan’s new District Attorney made history Saturday.

Alvin Bragg, Jr. was sworn in during a private ceremony at City Hall with his family standing with him.

Statement by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on COVID Status

Statement by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III after positive COVID-19 test:

I tested positive this morning for COVID-19. I requested the test today after exhibiting symptoms while at home on leave.

My symptoms are mild, and I am following my physician’s directions.

In keeping with those directions, and in accordance with CDC guidelines, I will quarantine myself at home for the next five days.

Stemming the spread of this virus, safeguarding our workforce and ensuring my own speedy and safe recovery remain my priorities. To the degree possible, I plan to attend virtually this coming week those key meetings and discussions required to inform my situational awareness and decision making. I will retain all authorities. Deputy Secretary Hicks will represent me as appropriate in other matters.

I have informed my leadership team of my positive test result, as well as the President. My staff has begun contact tracing and testing of all those with whom I have come into contact over the last week.

My last meeting with President Biden occurred on Tuesday, December 21st, more than a week before I began to experience symptoms. I tested negative that very morning. I have not been in the Pentagon since Thursday, where I met briefly - and only - with a few members of my staff. We were properly masked and socially distanced throughout.

As my doctor made clear to me, my fully vaccinated status — and the booster I received in early October — have rendered the infection much more mild than it would otherwise have been. And I am grateful for that.

The vaccines work and will remain a military medical requirement for our workforce. I continue to encourage everyone eligible for a booster shot to get one. This remains a readiness issue.

Barack Obama New Years Message

Former United States President, Barack Obama released the following New Years message via Twitter:

I’m hopeful about 2022. This year will undoubtedly have its challenges, just like 2021 did. But we’ve made it this far—and I still believe we can build a brighter future together. Happy New Year!

Vice President Kamala Harris New Years Message

Vice President Kamala Harris released the following New Years message via Twitter:

As we walk into this new year, I’ve never been more optimistic for our shared future. Together, over the past year, we have overcome incredible challenges. In this new year, I know we can make incredible progress as a nation. I wish you and yours a happy and a healthy 2022.

Eric Adams Sworn In As New York City’s 110th Mayor

Eric Adams was sworn in as the 110th mayor of New York City just after the ball dropped at midnight on Saturday. Adams held a picture of his mother and used his family’s bible to take the oath of office in Times Square with members of his family by his side.