WorldWatch 27 January 2021

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is calling on Biden to declare climate change an emergency and then to use the emergency powers to by-pass Congress (and democracy!). [Bloomberg, SkyNews]

Texas has applied to the court for an injunction against the Biden Executive Order preventing deportations for 100 days. This means, in effect, that Texas can continue to deport illegal immigrants until the court rules otherwise. The Trump appointed judge has placed a 14 day injunction on the Executive order.

The Republicans moved a motion in the Senate arguing that Trump's impeachment was unconstitutional. Although they lost the vote 45 to 55, it raises the prospect that the Democrats may not have the votes for the 2/3 majority required to convict the former President. The trial is due to start on 8 February 2021.

China has passed its Coast Guard Law authorising its Coast Guard to fire on foreign vessels, including with air support. The bill also allows dismantling of foreign structures in disputed territories and to board and inspect foreign vessels in Chinese-claimed waters. [abc.net.au]

The National Pulse noted that in the Executive Order banning the construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline, there was also a clause suspending the Trump Executive Order protecting the United States power supply from involvement by foreign powers.

Conflict News is reporting a rocket attack at Baghdad Airport.

It is being reported that Chinese aircraft have entered Taiwanese airspace.[Spectator Index]

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