Daniel Estrin

I'm Daniel Estrin.

Our technical director was David Greenberg, with engineering support from Zoe Vangenhoven, Jay Ciz, and Simon Laszlo Janssen.

For all the breaking news like we had today and many other stories that open your mind, tune in to NPR.

Good morning, Daniel.

Morning, Scott.

Before we begin the show today, I want to take a moment to reflect on the value of public media.

From its founding in the United States, public media has been meant to educate listeners and illuminate the stories from underrepresented communities to provide cultural insight that expands your perspective.

That's why we're especially grateful this holiday season.

And we want to pause to appreciate the generosity of NPR Plus supporters and all of our listeners who've already stepped up to donate.

Ah, well, thank you, Stephanie.

Thank you from all of us.

It's a simple, recurring donation to get you perks to a whole lot of NPR podcasts, including Up First.

You can join us at plus.npr.org.

And now, should we do the podcast?

Why not?

NPR senior contributor Ron Elvin's New Year's resolution.

Catch his breath before taking on another year in political news.

In South America, socialist rule in Bolivia came to an end and Chileans voted in an ultra-conservative president.

Also, quite a year for sports gambling scandals.

Fear the odds are good.