How Trump could fill his Cabinet without Senate approval

On today’s show: President-elect Trump has suggested he’ll use recess appointments to get some of his Cabinet nominees through. How would that work? NBC’s Sahil Kapur explains.

Four women are challenging Idaho’s strict abortion ban in court. The Idaho Capital Sun has been following the trial.

Rafael Nadal says he’ll retire from professional tennis after the Davis Cup this week. Matthew Futterman from The Athletic reflects on his legacy.

Plus, Hong Kong sentences 45 pro-democracy activists, NPR has what to know about new at-home tests that can detect both the flu and COVID, and the Times of London has the story of the foiled attempt by thieves to try to mug Mo Farah, one of the fastest men on earth.

Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.