U.S. Strikes ISIS In Nigeria, The Year In Congress, Holiday Spending - Up First Recap

Podcast: Up First

Published: 2025-12-26

Duration: 13 minutes

Guests: Emmanuel Ekenwatu, Claudia Grisadis, Alina Seljuk

Summary

The episode examines recent U.S. military strikes against ISIS in Nigeria, the legislative struggles of Congress in 2025, and the surprising trends in holiday spending despite economic concerns.

What Happened

The United States conducted military strikes on ISIS militants in northwestern Nigeria on Christmas Day. President Trump claimed the strikes aimed to stop the killing of Christians, though Nigerian authorities argue the violence affects both Christians and Muslims. The U.S. Africa Command stated the strikes were initially requested by the Nigerian government, marking a significant point in U.S. military involvement in Nigeria.

In Congress, 2025 began with ambitious legislative goals under House Speaker Mike Johnson. However, by year-end, Congress had ceded much of its power to President Trump and passed a record low number of bills. Key legislative initiatives were stalled, including those addressing the economy and border crisis.

The legislative year was marked by a significant government shutdown and the 'one big beautiful bill', a tax and spending plan that became law. Despite holding majorities in both the House and the Senate, congressional Republicans struggled with internal divisions, making it difficult to pass significant legislation.

The Senate, under Majority Leader John Thune, managed to approve most of Trump's nominees but faced increasing pushback on certain issues. Challenges included a proposed strike on drug traffickers, highlighting growing tensions between congressional Republicans and the president.

Despite economic pessimism, holiday shoppers spent record amounts this season, with Black Friday and Cyber Monday setting new sales records. Alfred Mai from ASM Games noted unprecedented sales, attributing the spike to a mix of cautious consumer budgeting and the affordability of games as entertainment.

A key insight was that wealthier individuals are driving much of the spending, while others switch to cheaper alternatives or leave the new market altogether. This spending pattern reflects broader economic divides, with many lower-income households feeling the pinch.

Key Insights

• The U.S. conducted military strikes against ISIS in northwestern Nigeria on Christmas Day, marking a significant point in U.S. military involvement in the region. These strikes were requested by the Nigerian government, highlighting the complexities of local and international responses to violence affecting both Christians and Muslims.
• In 2025, Congress passed a record low number of bills, with key legislative initiatives on the economy and border crisis stalled. Despite holding majorities in both the House and Senate, internal divisions among Republicans hindered significant legislative progress.
• The legislative year in Congress was marked by a significant government shutdown and the passage of a major tax and spending plan known as the 'one big beautiful bill'. This plan became law despite the challenges faced by congressional Republicans in aligning with President Trump's agenda.
• Holiday spending reached new heights with Black Friday and Cyber Monday setting sales records, driven largely by wealthier consumers. Many lower-income households opted for cheaper alternatives or exited the market, reflecting broader economic divides in consumer behavior.