Fox News Hourly Update – 7PM ET 11/19/2025: Episode Summary
Main Theme
This episode delivers fast-paced breaking news updates on major court investigations, political developments, legislative actions, high-profile crimes, upcoming elections, and notable cultural recognitions, demonstrating the “Fox News Hourly Update” commitment to concise and direct news at the top of the hour.
Key Discussion Points and Insights
1. Contempt Investigation into Trump Administration Deportation Flights
Segment: [00:02–00:43]
- Federal Judge James Boasberg is expediting a contempt investigation concerning possible violation of a court order by Trump administration officials regarding deportation flights.
- The judge's authority to refer administration members for prosecution stems from a recent appeals court ruling.
- The March court order centered on forcing a plane carrying accused gang members back from El Salvador; the administration claims the order was issued post-flight departure.
- Officials may be compelled to testify under oath.
- Quote: “Boasberg could compel officials to testify under oath.” – Jared Halpert, FOX News ([00:14])
2. Prosecution Challenges in the James Comey Case
Segment: [00:43–01:14]
- The DOJ admits a potential lapse in grand jury presentation in the prosecution of former FBI Director James Comey, who is charged with making a false statement and obstruction.
- Comey's attorneys seek case dismissal, citing "vindictive prosecution."
- Comey maintains a not guilty plea.
- Updates on legislative action: A bill requiring all DOJ Epstein files’ declassification passed both chambers and awaits the President’s signature.
- Quote: “Comey's lawyers have asked a judge to toss the case on grounds of vindictive prosecution.” – Lisa Lacera ([00:43])
3. Epstein Files Transparency Act Advances
Segment: [01:14–01:34]
- Once signed into law, the act will require the DOJ to publicly release all unclassified documents pertaining to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days.
- The act mandates searchable, downloadable access to a comprehensive set of records.
- Quote: “The Epstein Files Transparency Act calls on Attorney General Pam Bondi... to make publicly available... all unclassified records, documents, communications and investigative materials...” – David Spunt, FOX News ([01:14])
4. Other News Edge Updates
Segment: [01:34–02:30]
- Former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers will continue teaching at Hartford following the exposure of emails linking him to Epstein.
- President Joe Biden will attend ex-VP Dick Cheney’s memorial.
- Quick Hit: “America’s listening to FOX News.” ([01:34])
- Advertisement content skipped for summary.
5. Missouri Seeks COVID Judgment Assets from China
Segment: [02:30–02:48]
- Missouri’s AG Katherine Hanaway pushes the State Department to serve China with asset seizure notices to collect a court-ordered $25 billion COVID-related judgment.
6. Louvre Heist Prompts Security Overhaul
Segment: [02:48–03:26]
- After last month's $100 million daylight robbery of priceless artifacts, Paris’s Louvre Museum is installing new surveillance and anti-intrusion technology.
- Seven suspects were arrested, four charged, one fugitive remains.
- Thieves used concrete tools to breach display cases—a new method for museum thefts.
- Quote: “They sliced through glass cabinets with power tools meant for concrete.” – Jonathan Savage, FOX News ([02:48])
- Louvre director Laurence Dakar’s commitment to improved security.
7. Tom Steyer Enters California Governor's Race
Segment: [03:26–04:11]
- Hedge fund billionaire and environmental advocate Tom Steyer officially announces candidacy for California governor (2026).
- Steyer promises affordable living, lower utility costs, and more housing, focusing on corporate responsibility.
- Joins strong Democratic field vying to replace term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom.
- Quote: “The Californians who make this state run are being run over by the cost of living. We need to get back to basics...” – Tom Steyer ([03:35])
- Competing candidates: Javier Becerra, Katie Porter.
8. Roger Federer Elected to International Tennis Hall of Fame
Segment: [04:11–04:30]
- Roger Federer, in his first year of eligibility, is the lone candidate elected to the Hall, acknowledging his impact on global tennis.
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- On court action:
- “Boasberg could compel officials to testify under oath.” – Jared Halpert ([00:14])
- On DOJ transparency:
- “...to make publicly available... all unclassified records, documents, communications and investigative materials in the possession of the Department of Justice.” – David Spunt ([01:14])
- On California’s cost of living:
- “The Californians who make this state run are being run over by the cost of living.” – Tom Steyer ([03:35])
- On Louvre heist tactics:
- “They sliced through glass cabinets with power tools meant for concrete.” – Jonathan Savage ([02:48])
Important Segment Timestamps
- [00:02] Contempt investigation of Trump administration deportation flights
- [00:43] DOJ grand jury lapse in Comey prosecution; Epstein files legislation update
- [01:14] Epstein Files Transparency Act details
- [02:30] Missouri’s legal moves against China re: COVID
- [02:48] Louvre museum security overhaul after $100M heist
- [03:26] Tom Steyer’s governor run announcement
- [04:11] Roger Federer Hall of Fame induction
This tightly condensed newscast covers legal, political, international, and cultural headlines, providing essential updates and sharp commentary for listeners who want to stay informed.
