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Third Judge Approves Unsealing of Epstein Grand Jury Materials

Edward Saenz
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Third Judge Approves Unsealing of Epstein Grand Jury Materials

A federal judge overseeing the 2019 criminal case against Jeffrey Epstein has become the third — and final — judge to grant the Justice Department’s motion to unseal grand jury materials and other previously undisclosed evidence from the government’s Epstein investigative files.

Judge Berman’s Order

U.S. District Judge Richard Berman issued a four-page order Wednesday, concluding that Congress made its intent clear when it passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act last month. The act overrides traditional grand jury secrecy rules, he wrote, and mandates public disclosure of the materials covered under the Epstein Protective Order.

Berman stated that the “‘plain language’ of the Epstein Files Transparency Act unequivocally intends to make public Epstein grand jury materials and discovery materials covered by the Epstein Protective Order.” He emphasized, however, that the privacy and safety of alleged victims must be protected when the Justice Department releases any records.

Other Judges’ Rulings

This decision follows two similar rulings. On Tuesday, Judge Paul Engelmayer approved the release of grand jury materials and nonpublic evidence from Ghislaine Maxwell’s criminal case. Judge Rodney Smith also granted a DOJ request to unseal records related to the first federal investigation of Epstein in Florida in the mid-2000s.

Epstein Case Background

Berman presided over Epstein’s 2019 arraignment in New York and ordered him detained pending trial. Epstein died by suicide in a New York jail in August 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.

Reaction from Congress

Rep. Ro Khanna, who sponsored the Epstein Files Transparency Act, called the trio of rulings “promising” but said he will monitor the Justice Department closely for any efforts to delay release of the files.

“This bill was a bipartisan effort signed by President Trump. I hope Attorney General Pam Bondi will put the survivors above politics and the interests of the Epstein class. The public deserves full transparency, and the survivors deserve justice,” Khanna said.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Fed Approves Third Consecutive Interest Rate Cut

Michael Esparza
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Fed Approves Third Consecutive Interest Rate Cut

The Federal Reserve voted Wednesday to lower interest rates for the third straight meeting, signaling a cautious but ongoing shift toward easing monetary policy amid mixed economic indicators.

Details of the Latest Rate Cut

The Federal Open Market Committee voted 9-3 to reduce interest rates by a quarter point, bringing the target range down to between 3.5% and 3.75%. This marks a drop from the previous 3.75% to 4% range set during the October meeting.

What Analysts Expect Next

All eyes now turn to Chair Jerome Powell. Goldman Sachs analysts wrote this week that Powell is expected to signal that the “bar has risen” for any further reductions. They also predict at least five Fed officials will voice caution when discussing additional cuts.

Rate Forecasts for 2025

Traders appear skeptical that the Fed will cut interest rates again at its next meeting in January. According to CME’s FedWatch tool, there is a 72% chance rates will remain unchanged. Betting markets reflect a similar outlook, with Polymarket showing odds of 74% for rates to hold in January and slightly lower but still strong odds in March and April. Goldman Sachs noted that a January rate cut “could turn out to be appropriate” if economic data shows signs of decline.

Who Could Replace Jerome Powell?

President Donald Trump, who has been openly critical of Powell for not cutting rates sooner, said he expects to name a successor “probably early next year.” National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett is currently the betting favorite. Other contenders include former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Fed Governor Christopher Waller. Hassett has argued there is “plenty of room” for rate cuts in 2026 and supported Wednesday’s reduction, saying officials could go beyond a quarter-point cut.

Shifts in Market Sentiment

Market optimism for a rate cut surged last month after New York Fed President John Williams indicated a reduction might be possible in the “near term.” This contrasted with Powell’s earlier warning that another cut was “not a foregone conclusion.” Before Wednesday’s vote, traders had priced in nearly 90% odds of a cut, up sharply from below 40% following Powell’s remarks.

Broader Signals from Fed Officials

Several Fed leaders have recently leaned toward supporting rate cuts. San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly reportedly backed a reduction, citing concerns that have shifted from inflation to a weakening labor market. Major financial institutions—including JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley, Nomura and Standard Chartered—also reversed earlier forecasts and now predict further easing.

Standard Chartered noted that economic data released after the government shutdown has been “unrevealing,” contributing to the growing support for a cut.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Iceland Joins Growing Boycott of 2026 Eurovision Song Contest

Edward Saenz
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Iceland Joins Growing Boycott of 2026 Eurovision Song Contest

Iceland has become the latest country to withdraw from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, joining Spain, Ireland, Slovenia and the Netherlands in a coordinated boycott following the confirmation of Israel’s participation.

Statement from Icelandic Broadcaster RÚV

In a statement, Icelandic broadcaster RÚV said the inclusion of Israel’s national broadcaster, KAN, has “created disunity among both members of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and the general public.” RÚV had previously signaled its intention to sit out the contest but waited for its board of directors to formally review the issue on Wednesday.

A Widening Rift Across Europe

With Iceland’s withdrawal, five countries have now opted out of the 2026 competition, reflecting mounting tensions surrounding Israel’s involvement. The decision follows last week’s announcement confirming Israel’s place in the contest.

Earlier Signs of Protest

Ireland, one of the first to announce its boycott, cited similar concerns. Meanwhile, the broader debate has reignited questions about whether Eurovision—a show famously branded as apolitical—can remain insulated from international conflicts and public pressure.

Context from Recent Contests

The 2025 contest saw pop band VÆB represent Iceland, but their participation will not continue into next year’s event amid the widening protest.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Trump to Require Public Social Media Accounts for Visa Waiver Travelers

Indira Zaldivar
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Trump to Require Public Social Media Accounts for Visa Waiver Travelers

Foreign tourists visiting the United States will soon be required to provide five years of social media history as part of President Donald Trump’s latest border and immigration crackdown.

Expanded Data Requirements

According to new guidance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, travelers from visa waiver countries—including the UK, Germany and France—must submit their social media data, email addresses from the last decade, and even information about their relatives. These requirements apply to those using the Visa Waiver Program and the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which currently costs $40 and grants two years of travel authorization.

Previous Policy Steps

In June, the State Department announced that certain visa applicants would need to make their social media profiles public. The latest move broadens those requirements, adding more scrutiny ahead of major international events in the U.S., including the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics.

A Broader Immigration Crackdown

Since taking office, Mr. Trump has enforced stricter entry rules, including orders for immigration authorities to screen visa and green card applicants for what the administration calls “anti-American activity.” Officials say such activity could be an “overwhelmingly negative factor” in immigration decisions. Similar social media checks already apply to some student and scholar visa applicants.

Recent Actions and Future Plans

Earlier this month, the administration froze all immigration applications from 19 countries across Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, while also canceling citizenship ceremonies nationwide. According to reporting, the White House is considering extending its travel ban to more than 30 countries following the alleged shooting of two National Guard soldiers in Washington, D.C., by an Afghan national.

Calls for ‘Reverse Migration’

Mr. Trump has also urged what he described as “reverse migration,” stating on social media that he intends to “permanently pause migration from all Third World countries to allow the US system to recover.”

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Weak cool front arrives today, stronger cold front coming this weekend

ABC13 Houston
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Weak cool front arrives today, stronger cold front coming this weekend

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — It’s another gorgeous, sunny December day in Houston!

Temperatures will warm into the low 70s for afternoon highs under a perfectly sunny sky. The wind will turn to the north late in the day as a weak cool front blows in. This will only shave a few degrees off the lows and highs Thursday, which should be another sun-filled day. The Gulf breeze will return quickly behind this front, making for milder weather on Friday along with the return of dense fog.

Any other cold fronts on the way?

In fact, yes! Two more cold fronts will impact Southeast Texas over the next 10 days. A weak cool front will nose into Houston late Wednesday, but at this time we’re not expecting much of an impact from this front. Just expect similar temperatures between Wednesday and Thursday. It now looks like we’ll have to wait longer for the second cold front, which should blow in over the weekend, likely sometime on Saturday night. This stronger cold front with bitterly cold arctic air behind it will sweep across the eastern half of the country and brush by Southeast Texas, too. While the arctic air will likely miss Texas, there’s a low chance it could still get cold enough to bring freezing temperatures to our part of the state. That scenario is not currently reflected in our 10 day forecast, but there’s about a 30% chance we could get a light freeze. The cold air next week will also feature more clouds and a chance of rain.

When could we get our first freeze?

If we miss out on a freeze early next week, long range signals indicate we probably have to wait until late December for early January for a chance of freezing weather in Houston. On average, Houston historically gets its first freeze during the second week of December. This year it looks like we have to wait a bit longer.

When’s our next chance for rain?

After a dreary and damp end to last week, we’ve got a pattern flip on the way that will keep our forecast sunny and mild through mid-December. There’s a small, 20% chance for rain when a front arrives Friday into Saturday, but otherwise nothing more than that at this point.

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

1 Student Killed, Another Critically Injured in Shooting at Kentucky State University

Edward Saenz
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1 Student Killed, Another Critically Injured in Shooting at Kentucky State University

A shooting on the campus of Kentucky State University in Frankfort left one student dead and another critically injured Tuesday afternoon, according to university officials and police. A suspect is now in custody, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear confirmed.

Preliminary information suggests the shooting stemmed from a personal dispute rather than a random attack, an official briefed on the situation told ABC News.

Frankfort police responded to reports of an “active aggressor” near Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall, a residence building on the south side of campus. Two students were shot; one later died, while the other remains hospitalized in stable but critical condition.

The university said there is no ongoing threat to the campus community but confirmed the campus remains on lockdown as the investigation continues. Kentucky State is working with local and state authorities to determine what led to the violence.

“Let’s pray for all those affected,” Gov. Beshear wrote on X.

The university sits about 25 miles northwest of Lexington.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Blake Lively–Justin Baldoni Trial Delayed Until May 2026

Indira Zaldivar
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Blake Lively–Justin Baldoni Trial Delayed Until May 2026

The high-profile legal battle between “It Ends with Us” co-stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni has been pushed back by nearly two months. The trial, originally set for March 9, 2026, will now begin May 18, 2026, after Judge Lewis Liman informed both sides he will be in back-to-back criminal trials that month.

“Criminal trials take precedence,” Liman said during Tuesday’s hearing. Neither actor appeared in court.

The delay does not affect the substance of the case, according to a representative for Baldoni. Judge Liman will hear oral arguments on Jan. 22, 2026, regarding Baldoni’s request for summary judgment. His legal team has argued that Lively’s claims amount to “minor grievances,” while Lively’s attorneys insist she is entitled to a full trial.

Background on the Dispute

Lively is suing Baldoni for nearly $500 million, alleging retaliation and severe emotional distress after raising concerns about alleged misconduct during production of the film, which Baldoni directed. Her December 2024 complaint accused Baldoni and others of sexual harassment and attempting to smear her reputation.

Baldoni responded with multiple lawsuits of his own—one against The New York Times and another against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and their publicist—seeking hundreds of millions in damages. Judge Liman dismissed those suits in June 2025.

Baldoni’s attorney has said they plan to pursue “additional legal options,” while maintaining that Lively’s allegations are “factually baseless.” Discovery in Lively’s lawsuit is ongoing.

Representatives for Lively have not commented further on the newly delayed trial date.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Judge Approves Release of Epstein–Maxwell Grand Jury Files

Michael Esparza
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Judge Approves Release of Epstein–Maxwell Grand Jury Files

A federal judge has cleared the way for the Justice Department to release grand jury materials and other previously sealed evidence from the criminal case of Ghislaine Maxwell, in compliance with the newly enacted Epstein Transparency Act.

U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer ruled that the law “unambiguously applies” to the discovery materials prosecutors provided to Maxwell’s defense. His order modifies the existing protective order to allow public release of records, while requiring strict safeguards to protect victims’ identities and privacy.

Maxwell, serving a 20-year sentence for aiding Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse of underage girls, saw much of the case file become public during her 2021 trial. But a significant amount of evidence—such as search warrant applications, travel and financial records, photos and videos from Epstein properties, and forensic extractions of electronic devices—remains sealed.

Under the bipartisan transparency law, the DOJ must make all Epstein-related materials public within 30 days, with limited exceptions for victim privacy and ongoing investigations. Engelmayer also added a requirement that the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York personally certify that all files are properly reviewed before release, citing past lapses in notifying victims.

The ruling immediately triggered demands from Congress. Rep. Robert Garcia, the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, urged the DOJ to hand over the files, noting the committee already has a subpoena for all Epstein and Maxwell investigative records.

The judge also found that the transparency law overrides traditional grand jury secrecy rules, clearing the path for broad disclosure. He is now the second federal judge to do so in recent days, following a similar ruling in Florida involving Epstein’s earlier federal case. A third judge in New York is weighing another request tied to Epstein’s 2019 charges, filed shortly before his death in federal custody.

Maxwell’s lawyers warned that releasing untested grand jury materials could prejudice her longshot bid for a retrial, but they did not formally oppose the DOJ’s motion.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Honduras Issues Arrest Warrant for Ex-President Pardoned by Trump

Indira Zaldivar
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Honduras Issues Arrest Warrant for Ex-President Pardoned by Trump

Honduras’ attorney general has ordered the arrest of former President Juan Orlando Hernández, just days after he was freed from U.S. federal prison under a pardon issued by President Donald Trump.

Arrest Order Reinstated

Attorney General Johel Antonio Zelaya said he instructed national authorities and Interpol to enforce a 2023 Honduran arrest order for alleged fraud and money laundering. The document, signed by a Supreme Court magistrate, requires immediate action if Hernández is released by the U.S.—a condition now met.

Hernández had been serving a 45-year sentence in the United States for conspiring with drug traffickers to send massive quantities of cocaine into the country.

Corruption Case and Political Tension

Hernández is among dozens linked to the Pandora case, a major corruption scandal alleging that government funds were funneled through NGOs to political campaigns, including his own.

His attorney called the renewed arrest push “strictly political,” accusing the ruling LIBRE party of trying to intimidate the former president as it heads out of power.

Trump’s Pardon Sparks Controversy

Trump granted Hernández a “full and complete pardon,” arguing he was treated unfairly and over-prosecuted. The former Honduran leader echoed that sentiment, saying he was “wrongfully convicted” and thanking Trump for “changing my life.”

U.S. prosecutors, however, portrayed Hernández as a key facilitator of the drug trade who used state security forces to protect traffickers while publicly posing as an anti-narcotics ally.

What Happens Next

Honduran authorities say they intend to detain Hernández once he re-enters their jurisdiction. The case now sits at the intersection of international law, domestic politics, and a high-profile presidential pardon that continues to reverberate across both countries.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Raul Malo, Golden-Voiced Leader of the Mavericks, Dies at 60

Edward Saenz
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Raul Malo, Golden-Voiced Leader of the Mavericks, Dies at 60

Raul Malo, the powerhouse vocalist and co-founder of the Mavericks, died Monday at age 60 from cancer. The band confirmed his death, remembering him as a “force of human nature” whose talent shaped the group’s multicultural, genre-blending sound.

A Voice Like No Other

Known as “El Maestro,” Malo was celebrated for his operatic range and emotional delivery. His voice became the heart of the Mavericks, a band that fused country, rock, and Latin rhythms. Hits like “All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down” and “Here Comes the Rain” helped earn the group Grammy and CMA awards throughout the 1990s.

Roots and Rise

Born in Miami to Cuban parents, Malo formed the Mavericks in 1989 with Robert Reynolds and Paul Deakin. Their eclectic style stood out in Nashville, leading to breakout success with 1994’s What a Crying Shame. Malo later launched a solo career before reuniting with the band for a new era of acclaimed albums and global touring.

Health Battle

Malo was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2024 and later developed leptomeningeal disease. Even through treatment, he continued performing and kept fans updated, urging them to prioritize their health. By late 2025, his illness forced the cancellation of remaining tour dates.

Legacy and Final Message

The Mavericks continued their annual shows at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium just days before his passing, honoring Malo with emotional tributes. In a letter read at the event, Malo reflected on his life in music, thanking fans for sustaining him: “Thank you for giving my voice a place to live, even when my body cannot be the one delivering it.”

Malo is remembered for his unmatched voice, his cultural impact, and a career defined by boundless passion and joy.

For more on country music legends, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

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