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Numerology Predictions Today, December 27, 2024: Read your personalized forecast for numbers 1 to 9 Numerology, the mystical study of numbers and their influence on our lives, provides unique insights into our daily experiences and challenges. Based on the vibrational energies of the date and your personal number, today's forecast offers guidance to help you navigate career, relationships, health, and more. Whether you're a determined Number 1 or a compassionate Number 9, discover what the numbers have in store for you on this December day. Let the power of numerology guide your decisions and inspire your path forward. ​1 (Those born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th of any month, are blessed with the Number 1) This is not the best time to handle government-related matters or pursue official approvals. You might find delays in payments or decisions, which could heighten your frustration. Stay patient and avoid pushing too hard to resolve such issues immediately, as the cosmic energies favor patience over aggression today. Use this time to reflect on alternative strategies for managing your financial concerns. Additionally, this is a day to maintain a low profile in professional dealings, as miscommunication or hasty decisions may backfire. Embrace flexibility in your approach and consider seeking advice from trusted mentors or colleagues. On the personal front, focus on grounding activities like journaling or meditation to calm your mind. Patience is your greatest ally now, and by practicing it, you'll set the stage for smoother progress in the coming weeks. Remember, persistence and calm can turn today's challenges into tomorrow's victories. ​2 (Those born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, or 29th of any given month, are ruled by the Numerology number 2) Duties and responsibilities may feel overwhelming today, leaving you emotionally drained and longing for some solitude. Your sensitivity is heightened, making you prone to bouts of self-pity. Avoid succumbing to these feelings and remember that this phase is temporary. Instead of retreating entirely, try to focus on small, manageable tasks that don’t demand too much emotional energy. Your lack of sociability today may lead others to misinterpret your actions as aloofness, but this is a day to prioritize self-care rather than external validation. Ground yourself through creative pursuits like music, art, or writing. Channeling your emotions productively will help lighten the emotional load. Be gentle with yourself and avoid harsh self-criticism. Take a step back from heavy conversations and instead focus on activities that bring you peace. By maintaining balance, you’ll find a renewed emotional strength that helps you navigate the days ahead. ​3 (Those born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th of any month are ruled by the Numerology number 3) Today, you’re feeling highly motivated to tackle unresolved issues, but this determination comes with a heightened level of irritability. You may find it challenging to maintain composure, especially in family interactions, where tensions seem to be simmering. Avoid reacting impulsively to disagreements, as it could escalate minor issues into bigger conflicts. This is an excellent time to focus on communication, but remember to approach discussions with empathy and patience. Professionally, you are driven to clear backlogs and complete tasks, so make the most of this energy to be productive. However, avoid overloading yourself, as this could amplify your edginess. Spend some time reflecting on the root causes of tension, particularly in your personal relationships, and consider proactive steps to resolve them. Meditation or physical exercise can be great outlets for your restless energy. By channeling your focus constructively, you’ll emerge stronger and more in control by day’s end. ​4 (Those born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st of any given month, are ruled by the Numerology number 4) Today may feel stagnant for you, as your usual drive and focus seem to be lacking. You might find yourself waiting for opportunities to come your way rather than actively pursuing them. This passive approach could lead to frustration if you set unrealistic expectations for things to happen effortlessly. While it’s natural to experience low-energy days, try to reframe this lull as an opportunity for introspection. Use the time to evaluate your goals and align them with actionable steps. Avoid falling into the trap of complacency—small efforts today can prevent bigger hurdles later. In personal relationships, there might be a tendency to withdraw or expect others to reach out first. Instead, take the initiative to nurture connections. Engage in grounding activities like decluttering your space or organizing tasks; these can help you feel a sense of achievement. With patience and gentle effort, this phase will pass smoothly. ​5 (Those born on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd of any month, are ruled by the Numerology number 5) You’re feeling sharp and inquisitive today, with a mind that’s probing deeply into various matters. While this mental intensity can be an asset, it may also lead to conflicts if you become too overbearing in expressing your opinions. Be mindful of respecting boundaries in your conversations, as others may feel overwhelmed or defensive if you push too hard. This is a good day for brainstorming and coming up with innovative ideas, but ensure you approach discussions with diplomacy. On the personal front, you may feel a bit restless or impatient with routine activities. Take a short break to indulge in something spontaneous or adventurous—it could recharge your energy and lighten your mood. Balancing your assertiveness with empathy will ensure your ideas are well-received and your relationships remain harmonious. Keep in mind that collaboration often brings better results than confrontation, so seek common ground in your interactions. ​6 (Those born on the 6th, 15th, or 24th of any month, are ruled by the Numerology number 6) Today, you are brimming with energy, but it manifests as aggression and competitiveness, which may not be conducive to smooth interactions with others. Your short temper and impatience can create tension in both personal and professional relationships. Take care to avoid letting minor irritations escalate into significant disputes. Family dynamics may be particularly strained, as your mood makes others hesitant to engage with you. While it’s natural to feel driven, channeling this energy constructively is key. Focus on physical activities like exercise or a creative project to release pent-up frustrations in a healthy way. Professionally, this is not an ideal day to make major decisions or take on new challenges. Instead, use this time to address smaller tasks that require attention to detail. Practicing mindfulness and self-awareness will help you navigate the day with greater ease and prevent your fiery energy from creating unnecessary conflict. ​7 (Those born on the 7th, 16th, or 25th of any month, are ruled by the Numerology number 7) Today, you may find yourself under the influence of a close friend or confidant who suggests a path or decision that doesn’t align with your values. This could cause some inner conflict as you weigh the pros and cons of their advice. Trust your intuition—it is particularly strong today and will guide you to make decisions that are true to your personal integrity. Avoid acting impulsively or succumbing to external pressure. This is also a good day for introspection and spiritual growth. Spending time in solitude, journaling, or meditating can help you process your thoughts and reaffirm your boundaries. Professionally, focus on tasks that require creativity and introspection rather than collaboration. You have the strength to resist compromises that don’t align with your core beliefs. Remember, your authenticity is your greatest asset, and staying true to yourself will bring clarity and peace as the day unfolds. ​8 (Those born on the 8th, 17th, or 26th of any month, are ruled by the Numerology number 8) The daily grind has been taking its toll, and today is the perfect opportunity to step away from your routine. You’re in need of a break to recharge your energy and regain perspective. Consider taking a day off or engaging in activities that spark joy and creativity. This could mean exploring a new hobby, taking a nature walk, or even spending time with loved ones in a relaxed setting. Professionally, try to delegate tasks or prioritize lighter responsibilities to ease the pressure. Avoid overcommitting or taking on new projects today. On the personal front, reconnecting with your inner child by indulging in playful or creative pursuits can bring much-needed relief. This pause will not only rejuvenate your spirit but also allow you to approach future challenges with renewed vigor and insight. Remember, self-care is not indulgence; it’s essential for long-term success and balance. ​9 (Those born on the 9th, 18th, or 27th of any month, are ruled by the Numerology number 9) Today is a day of optimism and confidence for you, making it an excellent time to socialize and share your ideas with others. Your positive aura attracts support and admiration, especially for any projects or ventures you’re working on. This is an opportune moment to network and connect with people who can help you advance your goals. Your leadership qualities shine today, so don’t shy away from taking the initiative in both professional and personal settings. However, ensure you balance your enthusiasm with humility to maintain harmony in relationships. On the personal front, your charisma makes you a source of inspiration to those around you. Use this energy to foster connections and strengthen bonds with loved ones. Trust in your abilities and seize the opportunities that come your way. With your strong self-belief and determination, success is well within your grasp. Visual Stories Malavika Mohanan redefines elegance in a timeless red chiffon saree 9 morning habits to get rid of stomach discomfort 9 popular Korean desserts to try before 2024 ends Inside Alia Bhatt's love-filled Christmas celebration with Ranbir Kapoor, Raha and family 10 perfect baby names for kids born on a Thursday 10 countries with most cancer rates, see where India stands 10 things true friends don't do New Year dishes traditionally prepared in various Indian states In pics: Anil Ambani's grand and luxurious home 'Abode' Bigg Boss Photostories Featured In AstrologyLeader of the people When she left venue after addressing rally, large of people came out onto streets to catch glimpse of their great leader Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. — TheNews/File December 27 is indeed the darkest day in our country's history – the day Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, the courageous champion of democracy, was brutally targeted by terrorists after addressing a grand public jalsa in Rawalpindi. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1700472799616-0'); }); I still remember that the daughter of the East and the first female elected prime minister of the Islamic world was paying tribute to her great legendary father Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, and millions of people attending the rally were raising slogans in support of the PPP. When she left the venue after addressing the rally, a large of people came out onto the streets to catch a glimpse of their great leader. This was the vulnerable moment when terrorists carried out a murderous attack on Benazir Bhutto. When she was martyred, Pakistan was on the verge of breaking up. Her courageous spouse, Asif Ali Zardari, stepped forward in such critical circumstances to safeguard our beloved country. Playing a leading role, he raised the slogan “Pakistan Khappay” bravely. He convinced the political stakeholders that the best revenge is democracy while emphasising that the real source of power in any country are the people and that there is a dire need for a politics of reconciliation to move Pakistan forward in the right direction. No doubt, he made the tough decision to embrace all his past political opponents heroically for the survival of Pakistan. Today, when I say that the PPP is the only political party whose workers and leaders have sacrificed their lives for Pakistan, I face criticism from some circles. However, on the occasion of the martyrdom anniversary of Mohtarma Shaheed Rani, I would like to reiterate my principled position once again that if Quaid-e-Azam founded Pakistan, then Zulfikar Ali Bhutto saved Pakistan. Even when I was not a part of the PPP, I had made Zulfikar Ali Bhutto my role model politician. On the occasion of the annual death anniversary of the PPP founder on April 6, 2018, my column was published in these pages of The News when I was part of the PML-N. Terming Bhutto Sahib as a charismatic leader, I expressed that Bhutto is the name of an ideology and ideology never dies. Later, during the reign of Imran Khan, I was part of the PTI but even at that time, I acknowledged Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari following the democratic mission of his great mother. In my weekly column published on March 10, 2022, I stated that Bilawal Bhutto's power show was very impressive. That’s why, today, I feel eternal satisfaction that I have succeeded in becoming a part of a caravan of democracy in the form of the PPP, which has made valuable sacrifices for the continuation of democracy. Undoubtedly, Benazir Bhutto was a great asset to Pakistan. She had the status of a complete institution in herself. How can someone who was raised in the embrace of such a brilliant personality not possess political insight, foresight and leadership skills? Today, if her spouse is serving the highest post of the federation in the Aiwan-e-Sadr, then Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has emerged as a prominent democratic political leader. A few days ago, Ms Aseefa Bhutto Zardari was attending a ceremony, and I saw a clear glimpse of her great mother in her charismatic personality. Today, after seeing the enthusiasm of the caravans of supporters moving towards Larkana, I can confidently claim that the PPP lives in the hearts of the people. Although Shaheed Rani is currently not present among us, it is a source of satisfaction for me that President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari, Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Ms Aseefa Bhutto Zardari and Ms Faryal Talpur all are committed to carry forward her noble mission. The writer is a member of the National Assembly and patron-in-chief of the Pakistan Hindu Council. He tweets/posts @RVankwani

IRVING, Texas (AP) — The NFL will consider expanding replay assist to include facemask penalties and other plays. Officials have missed several obvious facemask penalties this season, including two in a three-week span during Thursday night games. “When we see it, because I see it like yourselves and the fans, I have an opportunity to see it from a different angle and see it from a slow-mo,” NFL executive Troy Vincent said Wednesday at the league’s winter meetings. “When you think about the position of where the officials are, things are happening so fast. Sometimes the facemask can be the same color as the gloves. There’s a lot happening. Concerning? Yes, because that’s a big miss. That’s a big foul. That’s why we would like to consider putting that for the membership to consider putting that foul category that we can see, putting that (penalty flag) on the field to help. There is a frustration, and we believe that is one category we can potentially get right." Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold was grabbed by his facemask and brought down in the end zone to end Minnesota’s comeback attempt against the Rams on Oct. 24. But there was no call. On Oct. 3, officials missed a facemask on Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving while he ran for 7 yards late in the fourth quarter. Tampa Bay instead was called for holding on the play, got forced out of field-goal range and Kirk Cousins rallied the Falcons to an overtime victory. “That is one this year, the facemask seems like it was the obvious one” Vincent said. “That keeps showing up.” Vincent also cited hits on a defenseless player, tripping, the fair catch, an illegal batted ball, an illegal double-team block, illegal formations on kickoffs and taunting as other areas that warrant consideration for replay assist. Current rules only allow replay assist to help officials pick up a flag incorrectly thrown on the field, or in assisting proper enforcement of a foul called on the field. The NFL’s Competition Committee will review potential recommendations for owners to vote on for expanding replay assist. Low blocks Vincent was emphatic about the league’s desire to eliminate low blocks that could lead to serious injuries. “The low block below the knee needs to be removed from the game,” Vincent said. “You look at high school, you look at college, too. Every block should be above the knee, but below the neck. All the work that we’ve done for the head and neck area, all the things that we’ve taken out of the game, this is the right time for us to remove the low block out of the game. Be consistent with high school. Be consistent with college. Every block should be above the knee and below the neck.” Onside kicks The league will consider changes to the onside kick after dramatically overhauling the kickoff rule on a one-year basis. “We need to look at that. That’s a dead play,” Vincent said of the onside kick’s low success rate. “That is a ceremonial play. Very low recovery rate. When we look at the kickoff and maybe where the touchback area should be during the offseason, we need to revisit the onside kick.” Options include giving the team an opportunity to run one play to gain a certain number of yards to keep possession. Commanders in RFK Stadium The Washington Commanders’ search for a new stadium site includes options in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia, and work has escalated on one in particular. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and controlling owner Josh Harris met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill last week about the RFK Stadium site in Washington, which requires a bill getting through Congress to transfer the land to the District government before anything else can happen. “I think there’s a bipartisan support for this,” Goodell said, adding he’d like to see it get to a vote soon. “We hope that it will be addressed and approved so that it’s at least an alternative for the Commanders if we go forward. I grew up in Washington, and I know would be exciting for a lot of fans.” Expanding schedule The NFL continues to discuss a potential 18-game season, but would need approval from the players’ union. “We are doing analysis I would say, but we are not finalizing any plans at this point,” Goodell said. “They’ll share that analysis with the players’ union, which would need to agree to any change.” AP Sports Writer Stephen Whyno contributed. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflBuccaneers looking to beat NFC South-rival Panthers and bolster hopes for a playoff berth

WASHINGTON — The House passed a $895 billion measure Wednesday that authorizes a 1% increase in defense spending this fiscal year and would give a double-digit pay raise to about half of the enlisted service members in the military. The bill is traditionally strongly bipartisan, but some Democratic lawmakers opposed the inclusion of a ban on transgender medical treatments for children of military members if such treatment could result in sterilization. The bill passed by a vote of 281-140 and next moves to the Senate, where lawmakers sought a bigger boost in defense spending than the current measure allows. The Pentagon and the surrounding area is seen Jan. 26, 2020, from the air in Washington. Lawmakers are touting the bill's 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5% increase for others as key to improving the quality of life for those serving in the U.S. military. Those serving as junior enlisted personnel are in pay grades that generally track with their first enlistment term. Lawmakers said service member pay failed to remain competitive with the private sector, forcing many military families to rely on food banks and government assistance programs to put food on the table. The bill also provides significant new resources for child care and housing. "No service member should have to live in squalid conditions and no military family should have to rely on food stamps to feed their children, but that's exactly what many of our service members are experiencing, especially the junior enlisted," said Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. "This bill goes a long way to fixing that." The bill sets key Pentagon policy that lawmakers will attempt to fund through a follow-up appropriations bill. The overall spending tracks the numbers established in a 2023 agreement that then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., reached with President Joe Biden to increase the nation's borrowing authority and avoid a federal default in exchange for spending restraints. Many senators wanted to increase defense spending about $25 billion above what was called for in that agreement, but those efforts failed. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., who is expected to serve as the next chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said the overall spending level was a "tremendous loss for our national defense," though he agreed with many provisions in the bill. "We need to make a generational investment to deter the Axis of Aggressors. I will not cease work with my congressional colleagues, the Trump administration, and others until we achieve it," Wicker said. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., speaks with reporters Nov. 21 on Capitol Hill in Washington. House Republicans don't want to go above the McCarthy-Biden agreement for defense spending and are looking to go way below it for many nondefense programs. They are also focused on cultural issues. The bill prohibits funding for teaching critical race theory in the military and prohibits TRICARE health plans from covering gender dysphoria treatment for children under 18 if that treatment could result in sterilization. Rep. Adam Smith of Washington state, the ranking Democratic member of the House Armed Services Committee, said minors dealing with gender dysphoria is a "very real problem." He said the treatments available, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy, proved effective at helping young people dealing with suicidal thoughts, anxiety and depression. "These treatments changed their lives and in many cases saved their lives," Smith said. "And in this bill, we decided we're going to bar service members' children from having access to that." Smith said the number of minors in service member families receiving transgender medical care extends into the thousands. He could have supported a study asking medical experts to determine whether such treatments are too often used, but a ban on health insurance coverage went too far. He said Speaker Mike Johnson's office insisted on the ban and said the provision "taints an otherwise excellent piece of legislation." Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, called the ban a step in the right direction, saying, "I think these questions need to be pulled out of the debate of defense, so we can get back to the business of defending the United States of America without having to deal with social engineering debates." Smith said he agrees with Roy that lawmakers should be focused on the military and not on cultural conflicts, "and yet, here it is in this bill." House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., responds to reporters Dec. 6 during his weekly news conference at the Capitol in Washington. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, the House Democratic leader, said his team did not tell Democrats how to vote on the bill. "There's a lot of positive things in the National Defense Authorization Act that were negotiated in a bipartisan way, and there are some troubling provisions in a few areas as well," Jeffries said. The defense policy bill also looks to strengthen deterrence against China. It calls for investing $15.6 billion to build military capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The Biden administration requested about $10 billion. On Israel, the bill, among other things, includes an expansion of U.S. joint military exercises with Israel and a prohibition on the Pentagon citing casualty data from Hamas. The defense policy bill is one of the final measures that lawmakers view as a must-pass before making way for a new Congress in January. Rising threats from debt collectors against members of the U.S. armed forces are undermining national security, according to data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a federal watchdog that protects consumer rights. To manage the impact of financial stress on individual performance, the Defense Department dedicates precious resources to improving financial literacy, so service members know the dangers of notorious no-credit-check loans. “The financial well-being of service members and their families is one of the Department’s top priorities,” said Andrew Cohen, the director of financial readiness in the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense at the Pentagon. But debt collectors are gaining ground. Last quarter, debt collection complaints by U.S. military service members increased 24% , and attempts to collect on “debts not owed” surged 40%. Complaints by service members against debt collectors for deceptive practices ballooned from 1,360 in the fourth quarter of 2023 to 1,833 in the first quarter of 2024. “There’s a connection between the financial readiness and the readiness of a service member to perform their duty,” said Jim Rice, Assistant Director, Office of Servicemember Affairs at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Laws exist to protect the mission readiness of U.S. troops from being compromised by threats and intimidation, but debt collectors appear to be violating them at an alarming pace. “If they’re threatening to call your commander or get your security clearance revoked, that’s illegal,” says Deborah Olvera, financial readiness manager at Wounded Warriors Project, and a military spouse who’s been harassed herself by a collection agency that tried to extort money from her for a debt she didn’t owe. But after she requested the name of the original creditor, she never heard from them again. “The financial well-being of service members and their families is one of the Department’s top priorities.” —Andrew Cohen, Director of Financial Readiness at the Pentagon Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, it’s illegal for debt collectors to threaten to contact your boss or have you arrested because it violates your financial privacy. The FDCPA also prohibits debt collectors from making false, deceptive, or misleading representations in connection with the collection of a debt, even for borrowers with bad credit scores. But according to the data, debt collectors are increasingly ignoring those rules. “Debt collection continues to be one of the top consumer complaint categories,” said a spokesperson at the Federal Trade Commission. The commission released a report earlier this year revealing that consumers were scammed $10 billion in 2023, a new benchmark for fraud losses. In his book Debt: The First 5,000 Years, David Graeber argues that debt often creates a relationship that can feel more oppressive than systems of hierarchy, like slavery or caste systems because it starts by presuming equality between the debtor and the creditor. When the debtor falls into arrears, that equality is then destroyed. This sense of betrayal and the subsequent imbalance of power leads to widespread resentment toward lenders. Photo Credit: Olena Yakobchuk / Shutterstock The debt collector reportedly harassing military service members most was Resurgent Capital Services, a subsidiary of collection giant Sherman Financial Group. The company tacks on accrued interest and junk fees and tries to collect on debts purchased for pennies on the dollar from cable companies, hospitals, and credit card companies, among others. Sherman Financial Group is run by billionaire Benjamin Navarro, who has a reported net worth of $1.5 billion, according to Forbes. Sherman Financial also owns subprime lender Credit One Bank and LVNV Funding, which outsource collections to Resurgent Capital. According to CFPB data, the second worst offender is CL Holdings, the parent company of debt-buyer Jefferson Capital Systems. The company has also been named in numerous complaints to the Better Business Bureau for alleged violations of the FDCPA, such as failing to properly validate debts or update credit reports with accurate information. Under the leadership of CEO David Burton, Jefferson Capital Systems is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CompuCredit Corporation, which markets subprime credit cards under the names Aspire, Majestic, and others. The third most referenced debt collector is publicly traded Portfolio Recovery Associates [NASDAQ: PRAA], which was forced to pay $27 million in penalties for making false representations about debts, initiating lawsuits without proper documentation, and other violations. Portfolio Recovery Associates is run by CEO Vikram Atal. Fourth place for alleged worst offender goes to Encore Capital Group [NASDAQ ECPG], which was required to pay $42 million in consumer refunds and a $10 million penalty for violating the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Encore collects under its subsidiary Midland Credit Management Group. These debt collectors all operate under a veritable shell game of company and brand names, almost none of which are disclosed on their websites, sending consumers on a wild goose chase to try and figure out how they’re related to each other. But despite their attempts to hide their tracks behind a smoke screen of subsidiaries, a leopard can’t change its spots, and the CFPB complaint database makes it harder for them to try. Photo Credit: Bumble Dee / Shutterstock Although widely considered a consumer-friendly state, complaints spiked most in California, which saw a 188% increase in complaints filed from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. California is home to 157,367 military personnel, making it the most populous state for active-duty service members. The second-largest increase in debt collection complaints was in Texas, which saw a 66% jump from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. The U.S. Department of Defense reports 111,005 service members stationed in the Lone Star State, which is the third-most populous state for active-duty military. The rising trends do not correlate to the number of military personnel by state. Complaints against debt collectors in Virginia, the second most populous state with 126,145 active duty personnel, decreased by 29% in the same quarter-over-quarter period. And complaints filed quarter-over-quarter in North Carolina, the fifth most populous state with 91,077 military personnel, decreased by 3% in the same period. The third largest percentage increase in debt collection complaints was from service members stationed in Maryland, where alleged harassment reports jumped 112% from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. Maryland ranks number 12 with just 28,059 active duty service members. Fourth place goes to Ohio – the 28th most populous active-duty state – where complaints doubled, followed by Arizona – the 15th most populous military state – where complaints were up 70% in the same quarter-over-quarter period. Photo Credit: PeopleImages.com - Yuri A / Shutterstock In 2007, Congress passed the Military Lending Act to cap the cost of credit to a 36% annual percentage rate, inclusive of junk fees and late charges, for active duty military service members. That rate is still considerably higher than average credit card rates, which range from 8% for borrowers with excellent credit scores to as high as 36% for borrowers with bad credit. But lenders still get hauled into court for violating the MLA. Don Hankey, the billionaire subprime auto lender who funded Donald Trump’s $175 million appeal bond , is among those violators. His company, Westlake Financial, which markets high-interest car loans for bad credit, has been sued twice by the Department of Justice for harassing military service members. In 2017, the DoJ alleged Hankey’s Westlake Financial illegally repossessed at least 70 vehicles owned by military service members. Westlake Financial paid $700,000 to settle the charges. In 2022, Westlake Financial paid $250,000 for allegedly cheating U.S. troops out of interest rates they were legally entitled to. Westlake Financial continues to receive complaints from military service members alleging abusive debt collection practices on its no-credit-check loans. A steady year-over-year increase in the number of complaints filed against Westlake Financial continued from 2020 to 2023. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau data shows a 13% increase in the number of complaints against the company from 2020 to 2021, a 28% increase from 2021 to 2022, and a torrential 119% surge from 2022 to 2023. The numbers suggest systemic complaint-handling processes and inadequate customer service resources. Photo Credit: Cynthia Shirk / Shutterstock On May 16, 2024, a deceptively named predatory lending industry front group dubbed the Community Financial Services Association of America (CFSA) lost a legal attempt to defund the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. In an effort to deprive Americans of essential consumer protections, the lobby group argued that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s funding structure was unconstitutional. But the Supreme Court denied its claim. In a 7-2 ruling, the Court held that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s funding structure is indeed constitutional. That means the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau cannot be defunded, but it does not mean the agency cannot be defanged. The New York Times suggested that Hankey’s incentive to finance Trump’s $175 million bond could have been a reciprocity pledge to neuter the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau if Trump wins the upcoming U.S. presidential election. If Trump wins a second term, he could replace Consumer Financial Protection Bureau director Rohit Chopra, an American consumer advocate, with a predatory lending advocate. In 2020, the Trump Administration secured a Supreme Court ruling that made it easier for the president to fire the head of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The ruling struck down previous restrictions on when a president can fire the bureau’s director. Like other federal agencies, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has also been confronted for overstepping its bounds, pushing too far, and acting unfairly against entities it regulates. Photo Credit: Lux Blue / Shutterstock Seasonality and rising interest rates do not explain the increase in debt collection complaints from service members. The surge in complaints is not tied to predictable seasonal fluctuations or changes in interest rates. The increase in debt collection complaints by service members may point to underlying systemic issues, such as aggressive and predatory debt collection practices that exploit the unique financial vulnerabilities of service members, who face frequent relocations and deployments. Debt Complaints by Service Members The 24% spike in debt collection complaints exhibits no correlation to fluctuations in interest rates. 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Pandemic stimulus checks were also not a factor. COVID-19 relief benefit checks went through three major rounds during the pandemic. The final round of Economic Impact Payments went out in March 2021 . To better understand the rising trend of debt collection complaints, we calculated the increase in the total number of complaints and the percentage increase quarter-over-quarter. For example, New Jersey has the second largest percentage increase in complaints quarter-over-quarter, but the total number of complaints increased by just 16. The data for this study was sourced from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) complaint database. The dataset specifically targeted complaints filed by U.S. military service members, identified using the tag “Servicemember” within Q4 2023 and Q1 2024. Readers can find the detailed research methodology underlying this news story in the accompanying section here . For complete results, see U.S. Troops Face Mounting Threats from Predatory Debt Collectors on BadCredit.org . Homelessness reached record levels in 2023, as rents and home prices continued to rise in most of the U.S. One group was particularly impacted: people who have served in the U.S. military. "This time last year, we knew the nation was facing a deadly public health crisis," Jeff Olivet, executive director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, said in a statement about the 2023 numbers. He said the latest homelessness estimates from the Department of Housing and Urban Development "confirms the depth of the crisis." At least 35,000 veterans were experiencing homelessness in 2023, according to HUD. While that's about half of what it was in 2009—when the organization began collecting data—things have plateaued in recent years despite active efforts to get that number to zero. Although they make up just 6.6% of the total homeless population, veterans are more likely to be at risk of homelessness than Americans overall. Of every 10,000 Americans, 20 were experiencing homelessness. Of veterans living in the United States, that number jumps to 22, HUD data shows. Complicated by bureaucracy, family dynamics, and prejudice, the path from serving in the military to homelessness is a long one. According to a 2022 study by Yale School of Medicine researchers, homelessness typically occurs within four years of leaving the military, as veterans must contend with the harsh reality of finding a job in a world where employers struggle to see how skills on the battlefield transfer to a corporate environment. These days, veterans also deal with historically high rent and home prices, which causes many to rely on family generosity while figuring out a game plan. Stacker examined academic studies, analyzed government data, and spoke with members of the Biden administration, experts, and former members of the armed forces to see the struggles members of the military face when leaving the armed forces. The Department of Veterans Affairs offers transition assistance to the roughly 250,000 service members who leave each year. However, those programs can be burdensome and complex to navigate, especially for those who don't have a plan for post-military life. Only a small portion of veterans have jobs lined up when they leave, according to 2019 Pew Research. Many also choose to live with relatives until they get on their feet, which can be longer than anticipated. Some former service members are unsure what kind of career they'd like to pursue and may have to get further education or training, Carl Castro, director of the Military and Veteran Programs at the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work at the University of Southern California, told Stacker. "It takes years for that kind of transition," Castro said. Many have trouble finding a job after leaving the service, even if they are qualified. Some employers carry misconceptions about those who have served. A 2020 analysis from the journal Human Resource Management Review found that some veterans face hiring discrimination due to negative stereotypes that lead hiring managers to write them off as a poor culture fit. Underemployment, or working low-wage jobs below their skill level, is also an issue. While the unemployment rate for veterans was 3% in March 2024, a study released by Penn State at the end of 2023 found three years after leaving the service, 61% of veterans said they were underemployed because of perceived skill mismatches . This phenomenon can have long-term economic effects, and eventually, that frustration can boil over, strain relationships, and potentially lead to housing instability. Working, especially a low-wage job, is not protection against homelessness. A 2021 study from the University of Chicago found half of people living in homeless shelters and 2 in 5 unsheltered people were employed, full or part-time. For veterans, housing costs certainly play a role, but those who leave the military also face systemic barriers. "It's worrying there are people that continue to fall through the cracks," said Jeanette Yih Harvie, a research associate at Syracuse University's D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families. Just under a quarter of adults experiencing homelessness have a severe mental illness , according to 2022 HUD survey data. They are also likely to have chronic illnesses but are unable to maintain preventative care, which only exacerbates these problems. Veterans facing homelessness are more likely to have experienced trauma , either before or after joining the military, according to Yale researchers who analyzed the 2019-2020 National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study. Childhood trauma was among the most significant commonalities among vets who become homeless. Substance use disorder is also widespread and can indicate an undiagnosed mental illness . Racial and ethnic disparities are at play, too. A 2023 study in the Journal of Psychiatric Research showed that Hispanic and Black veterans were more likely to screen positive for PTSD, and Hispanic veterans were more likely to report having suicidal ideation. Overall, access to mental health care has improved in the last decade or so. In December 2023, the VA announced it would open nine additional counseling centers. However, the stigma of getting help remains, especially after years of being conditioned to be self-reliant and pull oneself up by their bootstraps. That help, in the form of public policy, is slowly working to catch up to the need. In 2023, the Biden administration invested millions into research programs and studies on suicide prevention by the VA office in addition to a proposed $16 billion to improve quality and lower-cost mental health care services for veterans. And, in February of this year, HUD and the VA announced they would give up to $14 million in vouchers to public housing agencies for veterans experiencing homelessness. The program would also offer case management and other services. Still, with a culture that pushes people to keep going, it can be challenging for servicemembers to take advantage of these opportunities, Harvie said. "When you've been doing that for the last 15 or 20 years, it's difficult to stop and say, 'I'm the person that needs help.'" Story editing by Kelly Glass. Copy editing by Kristen Wegrzyn. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.House approves $895B defense bill with military pay raise, ban on transgender care for minors

Colorado couple arrested for leaving baby on road, cocaine found in its systemAngela Merkel's newly released memoir, 'Freedom,' delves into the intricacies of her 16-year leadership as Germany's Chancellor. The book highlights her dealings with influential figures such as Vladimir Putin, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her diplomatic and political strategies. Merkel revisits pivotal moments, including the global financial crisis, the influx of refugees in 2015-16, and the COVID-19 pandemic. She particularly examines her controversial decision to maintain strong trade ties with Russia and help broker a peace deal for eastern Ukraine. The memoir also reflects on Brexit, with Merkel questioning her efforts to prevent it, and recounts her choice to step down on her own terms, addressing public health concerns and the personal stress of leadership. 'Freedom' paints a comprehensive portrait of Merkel's impactful yet challenging career. (With inputs from agencies.)

The NBA got viewers for Christmas, even while going up against NFL games. The NBA's five-game Christmas lineup was the league's most-watched in five years, with the games averaging about 5.25 million viewers per game across ABC, ESPN and its platforms, the league said Thursday based on Nielsen's preliminary numbers. It's an 84% rise over the NBA's Christmas numbers from 2023. The Los Angeles Lakers’ 115-113 victory over the Golden State Warriors — a game pitting Olympic teammates LeBron James and Stephen Curry — averaged 7.76 million viewers and peaked with about 8.32 million viewers toward the end of the contest, the league said. Those numbers represent the most-watched NBA regular season game in five years. “I love the NFL,” James said in his televised postgame interview Wednesday night. “But Christmas is our day.” The NBA said all five Christmas games on its schedule — San Antonio at New York in Victor Wembanyama's holiday debut, Minnesota at Dallas, Philadelphia at Boston, Denver at Phoenix and Lakers-Warriors — saw year-over-year viewership increases. Wednesday's numbers pushed NBA viewership for the season across ESPN platforms to up 4% over last season. The league also saw more than 500 million video views on its social media platforms Wednesday, a new record. For the NBA, those are all good signs amid cries that NBA viewership is hurting. “Ratings are down a bit at beginning of the season. But cable television viewership is down double digits so far this year versus last year," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said earlier this month. “You know, we’re almost at the inflection point where people are watching more programing on streaming than they are on traditional television. And it’s a reason why for our new television deals, which we enter into next year, every game is going to be available on a streaming service.” Part of that new package of television deals that the NBA is entering into next season also increases the number of regular season games broadcast on television from 15 to 75. AP NBA: https://www.apnews.com/hub/NBAThe best high school football player in America: Duncanville QB Keelon Russell is named Gatorade National Football Player of the YearTrump's return sparks renewed debate on H-1B visas, targeting Indian talent