In this episode of the NPR Up First podcast, three key topics are discussed: President-elect Trump's appointments to his national security team, a slight decline in sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates in the U.S., and the ongoing UN Climate Change Conference (COP29). Trump's selections seem to favor loyalty over experience, raising questions about the effectiveness of national security. While STI rates are showing a small decrease, ongoing funding is essential to sustain this progress. Meanwhile, COP29 negotiations are centered on securing financial support from wealthy nations to help developing countries tackle climate change, all while uncertainty looms over the incoming administration's position.