From Biting Interns to Frozen Manure: The Strangest Stories of 2025

3 January 2026 Opinion

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The year 2025 unfolded with a parade of peculiar headlines that left many scratching their heads and others chuckling at the absurdity of it all. Among the most unforgettable stories was the saga of a summer associate at the prestigious Sidley Austin law firm who took the phrase “biting legal briefs” to a literal level. Dubbed the “Biglaw Biter” by legal observers, this intern reportedly bit at least five colleagues, including a human resources representative, prompting some staffers to don long sleeves as a precaution. The bizarre workplace behavior, chronicled by legal news outlet Above The Law, culminated in the intern’s dismissal, though the incident has since become a cautionary tale about office etiquette gone wildly awry.

Meanwhile, animal rights activism continued to stir controversy, with the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) making headlines multiple times throughout the year. Their efforts to memorialize the millions of animals consumed as food at Wesleyan University sparked debate, but it was a more dramatic stunt that truly captured attention. In a heated rivalry with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), PETA activists attempted to dump a truckload of manure on their competitors in Manhattan. Unfortunately for the protesters, a severe cold snap froze the manure into solid “manure-cicles,” forcing them to resort to chopping away at the icy mess. The incident underscored the challenges of extreme protest tactics and was widely reported by major outlets including ASPCA itself.

Adding to the year’s oddities was the continued fascination with artificial intelligence, highlighted by the antics of former CNN anchor Jim Acosta. Acosta’s experiments with AI-driven interviews and commentary blurred the lines between technology and traditional journalism, sparking conversations about the evolving media landscape. While some praised the innovation, others questioned the implications for news integrity, a debate that has been closely monitored by organizations such as the Federal Communications Commission.

2025 also saw its share of unusual animal stories beyond the protest scene. From alligators ringing doorbells to pet zebras roaming free, these incidents captured public imagination and reminded many that reality can be stranger than fiction. The year’s events, compiled by media analyst Dan Gainor, reflect a society grappling with new challenges and eccentricities alike.

As the nation moves into 2026, these stories serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of news and the colorful characters who shape it. For more on workplace safety and conduct, visit the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and for updates on animal welfare regulations, the U.S. Department of Agriculture provides comprehensive resources.

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Written By
Jordan Ellis covers national policy, government agencies and the real-world impact of federal decisions on everyday life. At TRN, Jordan focuses on stories that connect Washington headlines to paychecks, public services and local communities.
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