Benny Blanco on Early Mornings with Selena Gomez: "Our Favorite Time"

Music producer Benny Blanco, recently featured in PEOPLE’s 2024 Sexiest Man Alive issue, has shared insights into his relationship with singer and actress Selena Gomez, revealing that their early morning routine is one of their most cherished times together.

Despite their packed schedules, Blanco and Gomez make it a priority to start their day slowly and mindfully. “I’m a real morning person. It’s my favorite time to spend with Selena because we both wake up really early,” Blanco told PEOPLE. The couple usually sits down for breakfast around 6:15 a.m., a time Blanco describes as “our moment before the rest of the world wakes up.”

While he’s an early riser by nature, Blanco humorously notes that he still wakes up at 6 a.m. even if he has a late night. “I get sleepy at nighttime. I’m like an old man,” he jokes. “I want to be horizontal as quickly as possible throughout the day,” he adds, describing his routine with a laugh.

In the exclusive interview, Blanco also spoke about his approach to romance, emphasizing attentiveness over extravagance. “It doesn’t mean spending your entire bank account. It’s about being attentive,” he shared, recalling how Gomez once rented an entire botanical garden for a special date, and how he reciprocated with a homemade meal on Valentine’s Day featuring her favorite foods, like movie-theater nachos and fried pickles.

Since they began dating in July 2023, Blanco expressed gratitude for his relationship with Gomez, whom he describes as his “best friend.” Reflecting on their time together, he said, “I’m so happy. I met my best friend, someone I get to do everything in the world with. Every day is the best day of my life.”

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Who is Lee Zeldin? Six Key Facts about Trump’s Pick for EPA Chief

Lee Michael Zeldin

President-elect Trump has tapped former Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.) as his nominee to lead the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Zeldin, known for his loyalty to Trump during his time in Congress, lacks extensive environmental policy experience but has garnered support from Republican colleagues. Here are six important details about the likely next EPA chief:

1. Strong Trump Ally in Congress

From 2017 to 2021, Zeldin consistently supported Trump in the House, actively defending him during investigations and impeachment proceedings. He was a vocal opponent of federal inquiries into Trump’s 2016 campaign and was part of the president's defense team during the first impeachment trial in 2020. Zeldin’s name appeared more than 500 times in transcripts from the House impeachment process, according to NBC News.

2. Opposed Trump’s Tax Bill

In a rare break with his party, Zeldin voted against Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. He was among 13 Republican representatives who opposed the bill, citing concerns that it would raise taxes on his New York constituents by capping the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction. Zeldin argued that the bill disproportionately affected states like New York.

3. Close Run for New York Governor in 2022

Although Zeldin lost his 2022 bid for New York governor to incumbent Kathy Hochul (D), the race was tighter than expected for a Democrat-leaning state. His six-point loss was a significant improvement over previous Republican showings and contributed to GOP gains in New York’s congressional races.

4. Assaulted on Campaign Trail

Zeldin’s gubernatorial campaign made national headlines when he was attacked on stage in July 2022. The uninjured candidate used the incident to underscore his campaign’s focus on crime in New York, a central issue for the state’s GOP in the midterms.

5. Limited Environmental Record

Zeldin’s environmental stance aligns with Trump’s policies. He supported the 2017 U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement and criticized New York’s renewable energy goals as unrealistic. His environmental voting record earned him a low rating from the League of Conservation Voters, although he has expressed support for automotive standards.

6. Environmental Groups Express Concerns

Environmental groups have voiced caution about Zeldin’s nomination. Climate Power criticized his connections to the oil and gas industry, highlighting $410,000 in contributions. Environmental Defense Fund Executive Director Amanda Leland urged Zeldin to prioritize reducing pollution and maintaining America’s clean energy leadership, warning that his decisions could have broad impacts on public health and climate policy.

As Zeldin moves toward the confirmation process, his environmental approach and history as a Trump ally are likely to come under scrutiny from both parties.

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Fetterman Signals Support for Rubio as Trump’s Secretary of State Nominee

Marco Antonio Rubio

Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania announced he would support his colleague Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) if President-elect Trump nominates him as Secretary of State.

“While I expect some policy differences, my colleague @SenMarcoRubio is a solid choice, and I look forward to voting for his confirmation,” Fetterman shared Tuesday on the social platform X.

Reports surfaced Monday that Trump intends to nominate Rubio for the role. Rubio, who ran against Trump in the 2016 Republican primary, was once considered as a potential running mate before Trump chose Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) instead.

Rubio’s confirmation seems likely in the Senate, which would temporarily narrow the GOP majority until Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) appoints a replacement. As a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Rubio has taken a strong stance on issues related to Iran and China.

In addition to Rubio, Trump has quickly begun filling key national security positions. Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) has been chosen as ambassador to the United Nations, while Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Fla.) will serve as national security adviser.

Rubio, who joined the Senate in 2010, has even received support from some former Trump critics. Adam Kinzinger, a former Republican congressman, praised the pick, calling it “pretty good.”

“Marco Rubio has shifted over time; he even voted against Ukraine aid, which surprised me,” Kinzinger noted on CNN. “He’s no neocon, which likely appealed to Trump, but he has a solid understanding of foreign policy—an important asset for the role.”

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Who Could Be Included in Trump’s New Cabinet?

 

Who Could Be Included in Trump’s New Cabinet?

After winning the U.S. presidential election, Republican candidate Donald Trump will begin selecting members for his cabinet and top administrative officials in the coming weeks. Reuters has provided an idea of potential candidates who could fill key roles in defense, intelligence, foreign affairs, commerce, economy, and immigration. Here's a look at the possible individuals:

Scott Bessen

Bessen, a key economic advisor to Trump, is a potential candidate for Secretary of the Treasury. A long-time hedge fund investor, Bessen has taught at Yale University and maintains a close relationship with Trump. He is a strong advocate of laissez-faire economics, a policy once popular in the pre-Trump Republican Party. Bessen has also supported Trump's trade policies, including the use of tariffs as a negotiating tool.

John Paulson

John Paulson, a billionaire hedge fund manager and one of Trump’s key donors, could be considered for Secretary of the Treasury. Paulson has expressed interest in the role, according to sources close to him.

Larry Kudlow

Larry Kudlow, former director of the National Economic Council during Trump’s first term, could also be considered for Secretary of the Treasury. Kudlow, who currently hosts a program on Fox Business, may be appointed to another key economic position if he expresses interest.

Robert Lighthizer

Lighthizer, a loyal ally of Trump and former U.S. Trade Representative, is another strong candidate for Treasury Secretary. Even if he does not take on this role, Lighthizer may be offered another important position or continue in his former role.

Howard Lutnick

Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald and co-chair of Trump’s inauguration committee, is also being considered for Treasury Secretary. He is a strong advocate of Trump’s economic policies, particularly regarding tariffs, and has occasionally offered unsolicited opinions on Trump’s second-term policy direction.

Richard Grenell

Grenell, who served as the acting Director of National Intelligence and U.S. Ambassador to Germany during Trump’s first term, could be appointed as National Security Advisor. He is considered one of Trump’s close allies and has maintained strong relationships with foreign leaders, including Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Robert O’Brien

O’Brien, who served as National Security Advisor during Trump’s first term, is a potential candidate for Secretary of State or another key foreign policy or national security position. He has maintained a close relationship with Trump and continues to engage with foreign leaders.

Bill Hagerty

Bill Hagerty, a Tennessee senator and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, is a leading contender for Secretary of State. He has maintained strong relationships within all factions of the Republican Party and would likely receive swift Senate approval if nominated.

Marco Rubio

Marco Rubio, a Florida senator and former presidential candidate, is another potential candidate for Secretary of State. Rubio has aligned closely with Trump’s policies and has long been involved in the Senate’s foreign affairs committee.

Mike Waltz

Mike Waltz, a congressman from Florida, is a potential candidate for Secretary of Defense. Waltz has established himself as a vocal critic of China and has worked on various China-related bills in the House. His military experience makes him a strong contender for this position.

Mike Pompeo

Mike Pompeo, former CIA Director and Secretary of State under Trump, is another possibility for Secretary of Defense. Pompeo could also be appointed to a national security, intelligence, or diplomatic role.

Tom Cotton

Tom Cotton, an Arkansas senator and former military officer, is another possible choice for Secretary of Defense. He is favored by Trump donors and could be appointed to the role due to his strong defense and foreign policy stances.

Keith Kellogg

Keith Kellogg, a retired Lieutenant General who served as Chief of Staff for the National Security Council during Trump’s first term, could be appointed to a national security-related position.

Other Possible Candidates

For Secretary of Homeland Security, Trump may consider Tom Homan, who served in his first term, or Chad Wolf, who was Acting Secretary of Homeland Security during Trump’s presidency. Rep. Mark Green, who currently chairs the House Homeland Security Committee, is also a candidate for this position.

For Attorney General, Trump may choose John Ratcliffe, a former congressman and National Intelligence Director during Trump’s first term, or former prosecutor Mike Lee, a current senator from Utah.

Trump’s Chief of Staff could potentially be Susie Wiles, who served as a co-manager for his re-election campaign.

This list includes many individuals with close ties to Trump, and it remains to be seen who will ultimately be selected for these key positions.

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Putin Congratulates Trump on Election Victory

 

Putin Congratulates Trump on Election Victory

Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended his congratulations to Donald Trump on his election as the 47th President of the United States. Putin also expressed his readiness to engage in discussions with the newly elected leader.

Speaking at an event in Sochi, Russia, Putin publicly acknowledged Trump’s victory. He referenced an incident last July when Trump was attacked and injured at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Putin praised Trump’s resilience, calling him a "true man."

On Wednesday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia was closely monitoring the U.S. presidential election but wouldn’t make an official statement until they observed "specific statements and initiatives." Just a day later, Putin congratulated Trump.

Putin remarked, “In my opinion, he demonstrated courage and acted appropriately, like a real man. I take this opportunity to congratulate him on his victory.” He also noted that Trump’s campaign statements on Ukraine and restoring U.S.-Russia relations were significant.

During his campaign, Trump promised that, if elected, he would bring peace to Ukraine within 24 hours, though he provided no details on his strategy to end the ongoing conflict, the longest in Europe since World War II.

Addressing the matter cautiously, Putin, 72, added, “I don’t know what is happening now. I have no clear idea about the situation.

At the event, journalists asked Putin what he would do if Trump wanted to meet with him. In response, Putin said he would respond if the Trump administration reached out to him. He also stated that he was open to sitting down for discussions with Trump if necessary

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Kai Trump, Donald Trump's Granddaughter, Reacts to Election Win: "The Future’s Gonna Be Fantastic"

 Kai Trump, the 17-year-old granddaughter of President-elect Donald Trump, was at Mar-a-Lago with her family on Election Day, celebrating signs that her grandfather was headed back to the White House.

Kai Madison Trump speaks during the Republican National Convention at Fiserv Forum. (Imagn)

Sharing her excitement on social media, Kai posted a heartfelt message on X: “No one works harder or cares more about the American people. Congratulations, Grandpa, I love you!” Kai, who shares her grandfather’s passion for golf, believes her grandfather’s victory signals a bright future for the U.S. “The future’s gonna be fantastic,” she added with an American flag emoji.

As of Thursday morning, Trump had secured over 72.6 million votes, while Kamala Harris had 67.9 million. Trump’s 295 electoral votes beat Harris' 226, securing his path to the presidency.

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Kai’s Bright Future in Golf

As Trump prepares to take office as the 47th president, Kai looks ahead to the next chapter in her golf career. In August, she verbally committed to the University of Miami’s golf team. Expressing her excitement on Instagram, Kai wrote, "Beyond excited to join the Hurricanes and continue my golfing journey!" She also thanked her parents, Donald Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump, for their unwavering support.

Kai attends The Benjamin School in Palm Beach, Florida, where she shares a school with Tiger Woods’ son, Charlie.

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Political Involvement and Public Appearances

In addition to her passion for golf, Kai made waves during the election campaign. She gave a speech at the Republican National Convention, expressing her admiration for her grandfather after the assassination attempt in Pennsylvania. "I was shocked when I heard that he had been shot, and I just wanted to know if he was OK," she shared, recalling the emotional moment.

Donald Trump Jr.’s daughter, Kai Madison Trump, speaks during the Republican National Convention at Fiserv Forum. (Imagn)

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Kai Trump’s Growing Social Media Presence

Beyond politics and sports, Kai has ventured into the world of social media with her own YouTube channel, where she vlogs about her golf competitions and collaborates with well-known golf influencers, including Garrett Clark, co-founder of Good Good.

As she balances her career in golf and her family’s political legacy, Kai Trump is one to watch in both the sports and entertainment spheres.

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How Elon Musk Stands to Benefit from Trump’s Presidential Victory

Key Points

• After a major investment of at least $130 million into a pro-Trump campaign effort, Elon Musk could see substantial benefits following Trump’s presidential win.
• Tesla shares surged 15% post-election, boosting Musk’s net worth by billions.
• Trump acknowledged Musk’s campaign support, calling him a “star” during his victory speech.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk (R) joins former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump during a campaign rally at the site of his first assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 5, 2024.

 Close Alliance Between Elon Musk and Donald Trump

In the early hours of Wednesday, Donald Trump celebrated his presidential victory at his Mar-a-Lago resort, with Elon Musk standing beside him. During the celebration, Trump took a moment to recognize Musk’s efforts, calling him “a star” and thanking him for his role in the campaign. Musk’s support included a substantial $130 million investment in a pro-Trump campaign, voter registration efforts in key swing states, and frequent endorsements on his social media platform, X.

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Financial Windfall for Tesla and Musk’s Companies

Musk’s support for Trump has already translated into immediate financial gains. Tesla’s stock jumped 15% post-election, adding about $15 billion to Musk’s net worth. Although Tesla faces competitive challenges, particularly in China and Europe, Wall Street is betting that Trump’s promise to reduce regulations will benefit Musk and his businesses.

Tesla isn’t the only potential winner in Musk’s portfolio. Trump also praised SpaceX during his victory speech, recognizing Musk’s contributions to disaster relief efforts with Starlink, a satellite Wi-Fi network. With regulatory rollbacks and a more Musk-friendly administration, SpaceX, Tesla, and Musk’s other ventures could see a prosperous future.

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Regulatory Easing: A Potential Break for Musk’s Legal Woes

Musk’s companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, and X, are currently under multiple investigations by federal agencies. These involve alleged violations of securities laws, workplace safety, labor rights, environmental standards, and consumer protections. Given the executive branch’s power over these regulatory bodies, Musk could see a reduction or even termination of some investigations under Trump’s administration.

Public Appearances and Support for Trump’s Agenda

On October 27, Musk joined a pro-Trump rally in New York, where he was introduced by Cantor Fitzgerald CEO Howard Lutnick, who called Musk “the greatest capitalist” in U.S. history. During the rally, Musk proposed federal budget cuts of “at least $2 trillion” and criticized agencies like the SEC and the EPA, calling for more regulatory freedom for businesses. A Trump-led commission on government efficiency, with Musk’s involvement, could push for the elimination of regulations that Musk opposes.

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Musk’s Push for Federal Approval of Autonomous Vehicles

During a recent earnings call, Musk expressed his hope that Trump’s administration would introduce a federal approval process for autonomous vehicles. Currently, approval for driverless technology varies by state, which presents challenges for Tesla’s vision of autonomous driving. Musk’s lobbying efforts might create an opportunity for Tesla to gain a streamlined regulatory pathway to advance its driverless technology.

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Federal Support for SpaceX and Starlink

Since 2008, SpaceX has received over $19 billion in federal contracts, including work for NASA, the U.S. Air Force, and Space Force. With Trump’s backing, SpaceX could continue to secure these lucrative government contracts. Tesla has also benefited from environmental credits, which account for a significant portion of its net income. Although Trump has hinted at reducing these incentives, Musk’s close ties with the administration might allow Tesla to maintain its revenue from regulatory credits and federal rebates.

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Potential Risks and Rewards for Tesla’s Global Strategy

While Trump’s economic policies could favor Musk, they also come with potential risks. For instance, Trump’s proposed tariffs on Chinese imports could protect Tesla from Chinese competitors but may disrupt Tesla’s supply chain, which relies on parts and materials from China. On labor matters, Musk has sought to limit the National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) authority, and a Trump administration could reduce the NLRB’s power, potentially relieving Musk of legal battles over worker protections.

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Musk’s Controversial Engagements and International Relations

Musk’s actions in international affairs, particularly with Starlink, have raised concerns. Recently, he reportedly cut off Starlink access over Taiwan at the request of Russian President Vladimir Putin, which allegedly followed discussions between Putin and China’s Xi Jinping. U.S. officials have voiced concerns about Musk’s ties with Russia, with some suggesting that Musk’s interactions with foreign leaders could warrant investigation.

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Musk’s Long-Term Political Aspirations

Musk has stated his intention to remain actively involved in U.S. politics, not just through presidential campaigns but also in local elections. His super PAC aims to influence district attorney elections across the country, with a focus on prosecuting repeat violent offenders. Musk’s political involvement appears to be a long-term strategy, and with Trump in office, Musk’s influence in the U.S. political landscape could continue to grow.

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In summary, Elon Musk’s significant investment in Trump’s campaign and his close alliance with the new administration have positioned him for substantial gains. From regulatory relief to potential government contracts, Musk’s businesses could see substantial benefits under Trump’s presidency. However, Musk’s support for controversial foreign figures and potential legal challenges remain points of contention.

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