Media News Daily: Top Stories for 01/07/2026

Meta Appoints Former Trump Official as Chief Legal Officer Amid EU Tensions

Meta has named C.J. Mahoney, a former U.S. Trade Representative under President Trump and a senior legal executive at Microsoft, as its new Chief Legal Officer. The appointment is seen as part of Meta’s broader effort to strengthen ties with the Trump administration as it faces escalating legal challenges from European Union regulators. Mahoney joins other Trump-aligned officials recently elevated within Meta, including Joel Kaplan and Kevin Martin, suggesting a coordinated strategy to gain U.S. political support against EU digital regulations. Meta continues to face billions in EU fines, and closer alignment with the White House may enhance its legal and political positioning globally. Read More (Social Media Today Rating)

Rep. Jasmine Crockett Says Vance Criticism Reflects Racial Bias

Texas Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett responded on The View to Vice President J.D. Vance’s recent criticism of her public persona, calling the remarks racially motivated. Vance previously questioned Crockett’s authenticity at a Turning Point USA event. Crockett, who is running for U.S. Senate, countered that her appeal among working-class voters is a key reason for the scrutiny, noting her background as a criminal defense attorney and her lived experience with marginalized communities. She accused Republicans of using racialized messaging to discredit her, suggesting their attacks shift depending on the political audience. Read More (Washington Examiner Rating)

New York Times Lawsuit Against Pentagon to Proceed Swiftly

A federal judge is expected to hear The New York Times’ lawsuit against the Pentagon in March, following a Monday filing urging a swift ruling. The Times argues that an October policy by the Department of Defense unconstitutionally restricts independent journalism by limiting access to unapproved information. The newspaper claims the policy undermines press freedoms and amounts to prior restraint. The court’s handling of the case could have broad implications for national security reporting and journalistic access to government data. Read More (Editor & Publisher Rating)