Fox News Hourly Update — 1PM ET, 01/03/2026 Newscast
Host: Dave Anthony, FOX News Podcasts
Date: January 3, 2026
Overview
This episode delivers a rapid-fire roundup of breaking news and major national stories, with a primary focus on the unprecedented U.S. military operation in Venezuela. It provides updates on high-profile legal cases in Texas and Wisconsin, global reactions, and a quick look at the weekend’s pivotal NFL matchups.
Key Stories and Discussion Points
1. U.S. Military Operation in Venezuela
- (00:03–01:28)
- The U.S. launched a surprise early morning operation against Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, capturing him and his wife, who now head to the U.S. to face criminal charges.
- The operation was described as “one of the most stunning, effective and powerful displays of American military might” (B, 00:10).
- President Trump was reported to have watched the event live from Mar-a-Lago (A, 00:18).
- Maduro is indicted on narco-terrorism, drug, and weapons charges.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a stern warning to would-be adversaries:
- Quote: “Don’t play games with this President’s in office because it’s not going to turn out well.” — Marco Rubio (C, 00:41)
- The military operation involved destroying boats used for drug smuggling, resulting in more than 100 alleged smugglers killed, and the seizure of oil tankers.
- Uncertainty surrounds Venezuela’s leadership moving forward:
- Quote: “We’re going to be running it with a group and we’re going to make sure it’s run properly. We’re going to rebuild the oil infrastructure which will cost billions of dollars. It’ll be paid for by the oil companies directly.” — President Trump (B, 00:59)
Message to Venezuelans
- When asked for his message to the Venezuelan people:
- Quote: “You’re going to have peace and you’re going to have safety. You’re going to have justice. You can have a country. You’re going to have a real country.” — President Trump (B, 01:13)
- Celebrations reported in Miami among Venezuelan Americans.
Global Reaction
- (01:28–01:53)
- Russia’s foreign ministry strongly condemned the operation, calling U.S. justifications “untenable,” expressing continued solidarity with the Venezuelan people.
- Argentina’s president supported the move, stating:
- Quote: “Freedom advances. Long live freedom.” — President of Argentina (D, 01:47)
- Some American allies are urging de-escalation; domestic critics in Congress are questioning the operation’s legality.
2. Uvalde School Shooting Officer Trial Update
- (02:39–03:18)
- Former Uvalde school police officer Adrian Gonzalez faces trial for child abandonment and endangerment, more than three years after the massacre.
- It took officers 77 minutes to breach the classroom, by which time 19 students and two teachers were killed.
- Only two of the 376 responding officers have been charged.
- Gonzalez’s attorney claims he was helping children escape during the attack.
- Quote: "Victims’ families have been trying to hold police accountable for not advancing on the shooter as soon as officers arrived on the scene." — Reporter Roger Stern (E, 02:39)
3. Wisconsin Judge Conviction and Resignation
- (03:22–03:54)
- Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan resigns after felony obstruction conviction.
- Prosecutors say she helped a Mexican immigrant evade ICE arrest by distracting federal agents and escorting him out a private door.
- A jury convicted her on December 19.
- Republicans began impeachment proceedings; the case gained national attention.
- President Trump cited the case in his immigration campaign; Democrats called the prosecution politicized.
- Quote: “The case drew national attention, with President Trump highlighting it as part of his immigration push, while Democrats called the prosecution politically motivated.” — Matt Murphy (C, 03:46)
4. NFL Saturday Games Preview
- (03:54–End)
- Two crucial games begin the final regular season week:
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers — NFC South title (loser eliminated).
- Seattle Seahawks vs. San Francisco 49ers — NFC West crown (loser gets playoff wild card).
- For sports fans, high stakes dominate the start of the weekend.
Notable Quotes
- Marco Rubio: “Don’t play games with this President’s in office because it’s not going to turn out well.” (00:41)
- President Trump: “We’re going to rebuild the oil infrastructure which will cost billions of dollars. It’ll be paid for by the oil companies directly.” (00:59)
- President Trump (to Venezuelans): “You’re going to have peace and you’re going to have safety. You’re going to have justice. You can have a country. You’re going to have a real country.” (01:13)
- Argentine President: “Freedom advances. Long live freedom.” (01:47)
- Reporter Roger Stern (Uvalde update): “Victims’ families have been trying to hold police accountable for not advancing on the shooter as soon as officers arrived on the scene.” (02:39)
Timestamps for Key Segments
- US attacks Venezuela, Maduro captured — 00:03–01:28
- International reaction and Miami celebrations — 01:28–01:53
- Uvalde shooting officer trial update — 02:39–03:18
- Wisconsin judge conviction, resignation — 03:22–03:54
- NFL playoff implications — 03:54–End
This concise, high-energy news update from FOX covers a dramatic day in global politics, legal accountability in the U.S., and pivotal NFL action, offering both quotable moments and an engaging snapshot for those who missed the episode.
