California Rep. Kevin McCarthy has had better weeks. The Republican expected to get his party's nod to become speaker of the House this week as the new representatives were supposed to be sworn in. However, a holdout wing of the GOP has stalled McCarthy's ascent. McCarthy has been unable to win the absolute majority of votes required to become House speaker for days.Damar Hamlin's health is reportedly improving despite being in critical condition. The Buffalo Bill was hospitalized following a tackle in his team's game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday.Meanwhile, overseas, the Kremlin is facing unprecedented criticism from inside Russia after one of the deadliest attacks on its troops since the Ukraine war began. It took place on New Year's Day. Kyiv, and Russian bloggers, claim the death toll is very likely in the hundreds.Want to support 1A? Give to your local public radio station and subscribe to this podcast. Have questions? Find us on Twitter @1A.