Fox News Hourly Update - 3PM ET, December 8, 2025

Host: Lisa Brady, FOX News Podcasts
Date: December 8, 2025
Episode Theme: An update on the day's major U.S. and international news, featuring developments on domestic policy, Supreme Court oral arguments, legal shakeups, international tech regulation, charity news, and financial markets.

Main Theme & Purpose

This episode provides concise updates on key political, legal, and societal events shaping the United States and the world. Top stories include government relief for American farmers, a significant Supreme Court case on executive authority, a major church abuse settlement, legal changes affecting social media for teens in Australia, and charitable efforts during the holidays.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. U.S. Aid Package for Farmers Impacted by China Trade War

[00:02 – 00:35]

• Announcement: President Trump has authorized an aid package, targeting U.S. farmers suffering from the ongoing trade war with China.

• Details:

  • The USDA will distribute up to $11 billion in one-time payments, mostly to crop farmers, notably those growing soybeans.
  • The trade conflict led to major losses after China, following meetings between President Trump and President Xi, cut soybean imports.
  • Positive note: China has now agreed to resume some soybean purchases.

  Notable Quote:

  • Lisa Brady: "Help is on the way. President Trump signing off on an aid package for American farmers impacted by a trade war with China." [00:02]
  • Jared Halpern: "Farmers have long called for assistance, with soybean farmers facing huge losses after China cut imports of American grown soybeans following talks with President Xi last month." [00:19]

2. Supreme Court Hears Arguments on Executive Power over FTC

[00:35 – 01:32]

• Context: The U.S. Supreme Court is examining whether the President can fire a member of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), with broader implications for executive oversight over independent federal agencies.

• Legal Arguments:

  • Amit Agarwal, representing the FTC, says Congress permits president's removal of some agency commissioners, for cause.
  • Chief Justice Roberts questions if the precedent the FTC relies on is still relevant, calling it a "husk of itself."
  • Several justices express skepticism over the growing power of so-called "independent" agencies.

  Notable Quotes:

  • Chief Justice John Roberts: “We’re talking about more than two dozen traditional independent agencies… all of them by democratically elected presidents.” [00:57]
  • Chief Justice John Roberts: “One prior ruling in particular the FTC was relying on was a husk of itself.” [01:08]

3. $200 Million Settlement Approved for Victims of Church Abuse

[01:32 – 01:56]

• Development: A federal judge approves a $200 million settlement for more than 500 abuse victims from the New Orleans Archdiocese after prolonged negotiations.

• Emotional Impact: Survivors recently testified regarding the longtime effects of abuse.

  Notable Quote:

  • Lisa Brady: "A federal judge just approving a settlement for victims of clergy abuse in the New Orleans Archdiocese after years of negotiations, more than 500 abuse claims, a more than $200 million settlement..." [01:32]

4. Legal Shakeup: Alina Haba Steps Down as U.S. Attorney in New Jersey

[02:30 – 03:05]

• Update: Former Trump lawyer Alina Haba resigns as U.S. Attorney for New Jersey after a court ruling disqualified her.

• Next Steps: Attorney General Pam Bondi indicates the Justice Department will seek further review and expects the decision to be overturned. Haba remains a senior advisor.

  Notable Quote:

  • Lisa Brady: “President Trump's former attorney Alina Haba is stepping down as U.S. attorney in New Jersey. This following a court ruling disqualifying her..." [02:30]

5. Australia's New Social Media Law Targets Teens

[03:05 – 03:54]

• Policy: A new Australian law, effective Wednesday, bans children under 16 from creating social media accounts. Major platforms affected include Meta, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube.

• Enforcement:

  • Tech companies must identify teen accounts through various algorithms and behavioral analyses.
  • Noncompliance risks fines up to $33 million.
  • Teens already discussing loopholes online.
  • Critics warn this could drive teens to riskier online spaces, while the government draws parallels to other age-based laws for protection.

• Expert Insight:

  • Phones are already banned in Australian schools, signaling a robust effort at youth digital safety.

  Notable Quote:

  • Madison Allworth: “It's up to tech companies to figure out which accounts belong to teens... If companies don't comply, fines reach up to $33 million.” [03:05]

6. First Lady Melania Trump & Toys for Tots

[03:54 – 04:11]

• Event: First Lady Melania Trump participates in the well-known Toys for Tots charity drive at Quantico Marine Corps Base, highlighting the enduring tradition of supporting children in need during the holidays.

  Notable Quote:

  • Ainsley Earhart: "For more than 75 years, Marines and volunteers across America collect and deliver new toys to children who need a little extra joy during Christmas, all wrapped with love and great care." [03:54]

7. Market Update: Wall Street Sell-Off

[04:11 – 04:24]

• Market News: Stocks see sharp declines, with the Dow down 305 points, as markets brace for tomorrow's Federal Reserve meeting.

Memorable Moments & Quotes

• “Farmers have long called for assistance, with soybean farmers facing huge losses after China cut imports.” — Jared Halpern [00:19]
• “One prior ruling in particular the FTC was relying on was a husk of itself.” — Chief Justice John Roberts [01:08]
• “Opponents also argue the ban will push teens to riskier places online.” — Lisa Brady [03:31]
• “Some survivors testifying recently about the lingering impacts of abuse decades later.” — Lisa Brady [01:49]

Timestamps for Important Segments

• Farmer Aid Package: 00:02 – 00:35
• Supreme Court Executive Power: 00:35 – 01:32
• Church Abuse Settlement: 01:32 – 01:56
• Alina Haba Legal Update: 02:30 – 03:05
• Australia Teen Social Media Ban: 03:05 – 03:54
• Toys for Tots Charity: 03:54 – 04:11
• Wall Street Update: 04:11 – 04:24

Conclusion

This brisk FOX News update covered breaking political, legal, and global news with clarity, dropping in significant quotes and expert perspectives. From the plight and relief of American farmers to global efforts to shield youth online, the newscast provides actionable headlines and context for listeners wanting to stay informed on headline events.