Senate Republicans rejected a Democratic proposal to reopen the government and extend health care subsidies. The shutdown is the longest in U.S. history and affects many, including unpaid government workers. Democrats want health care subsidies extended as part of the government funding bill, but Republicans demand the government reopen first.
Key Facts
Republicans declined an offer to extend health care subsidies for a year and reopen the government.
The government shutdown is the longest in U.S. history.
President Trump encouraged Republicans to end the shutdown and consider changing Senate rules to bypass Democrats.
Democrats proposed extending Affordable Care Act subsidies to avoid sudden increases in health insurance costs.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated that Republicans would negotiate health care after reopening the government.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer suggested forming a bipartisan committee to address changes to the Affordable Care Act.
Negotiations are ongoing, with moderate Democrats working on a compromise proposal.
Obesity rates in the U.S. have been slowly declining from a high of nearly 40% in 2022 to 37% recently. While some believe that new weight loss drugs may contribute to this trend, experts disagree on their overall impact. Drug use and other factors like physical activity and diet changes are thought to affect obesity rates.
Key Facts
Obesity in the U.S. decreased from nearly 40% in 2022 to 37% recently.
The rate of diabetes diagnoses is now at an all-time high of 13.8%.
Obesity is measured using Body Mass Index (BMI) and a BMI over 30 is considered obese by the CDC.
Factors like lack of exercise, poor diet, genetics, and stress contribute to obesity risk.
Gallup data indicates an increase in the use of weight loss drugs, like GLP-1s, by 7 percentage points between 2024 and 2025.
Use of these drugs is higher among women, and obesity rates have dropped slightly more for women than men since 2022.
GLP-1 drugs, mainly used for diabetes, are now popular for weight loss.
Experts are divided about the extent to which these drugs affect the overall obesity trend.
New federal data shows a decrease in the number of people receiving SNAP benefits across the United States in early 2025. This decline happens during an ongoing federal government shutdown, which has delayed food assistance for millions of Americans.
Key Facts
Over 645,000 people stopped receiving SNAP benefits between January and May 2025.
The total number of SNAP recipients decreased from 42,380,525 to 41,735,210 during this period.
A prolonged trend of declining SNAP enrollment started in October 2024.
The government shutdown that began on October 1, 2025, is delaying food assistance.
Georgia saw the largest SNAP recipient drop at 10.5 percent, while North Carolina saw a 9.5 percent drop.
Alaska and Hawaii experienced small increases in SNAP beneficiaries.
During former President Joe Biden's administration, SNAP participation increased from about 37 million to over 42 million.
President Trump commented on the drop but did not cite a specific reason for it.
A new map from Child Care Aware of America shows how much families in different states spend on child care. The average cost for caring for an infant and a 4-year-old is about $29,000 a year, with some states reporting much higher expenses. In many places, child care costs as much as or even more than housing expenses.
Key Facts
Child Care Aware of America released a map showing child care costs across the U.S.
The national average annual cost for child care for two children is roughly $29,000.
The District of Columbia has the highest costs at $47,174 per year for two children.
Mississippi, Alabama, and South Dakota have the lowest costs, still above $14,500 annually.
In many states, child care expenses are equal to or higher than housing costs.
In 33 states and D.C., child care costs more than the average rent.
In 14 states, child care costs are similar to or more than mortgage payments.
Child care costs in high-cost states like Hawaii and New York exceed $37,000 annually.
President Donald Trump is urging Senate Republicans to remove the filibuster to end the government shutdown. The filibuster requires 60 votes to pass most legislation, and Trump believes removing it can help Republicans advance their priorities. However, some Republicans worry that this change could reduce their power if Democrats gain a majority in the future.
Key Facts
President Trump is frustrated with the ongoing government shutdown.
He is pushing Republicans to remove the filibuster rule in the Senate.
The filibuster requires 60 votes to end debate on a bill and move it forward.
Senate Republicans currently hold a 53-47 majority.
Removing the filibuster could allow Republicans to pass legislation more easily.
Some Republicans fear losing power if the Democrats take control of the Senate later.
The government shutdown is currently the longest in U.S. history.
The Trump administration has decided to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for South Sudan, stating that conditions have improved enough for the approximately 230 South Sudanese immigrants to return home. TPS has been revoked or is under review for several other countries as well, affecting hundreds of thousands of immigrants and their ability to stay and work in the U.S. Challenges to these changes, including lawsuits, highlight the complexity and impact of this decision.
Key Facts
The Trump administration ended TPS for South Sudan, saying conditions have improved.
TPS is a program for immigrants from countries with conflicts or disasters.
Immigrants with TPS can stay and work in the U.S. temporarily.
President Trump opposes how the previous administration used TPS extensions.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem has decided not to renew TPS for several countries.
Legal challenges are ongoing against the removal of TPS for countries like Venezuela and Haiti.
Employers are affected by the uncertainty surrounding TPS terminations.
South Sudan's situation remains unstable, according to a U.N. official.
A U.S. judge has permanently blocked President Donald Trump from sending National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon. The court decision states that President Trump did not have the legal authority to deploy troops to the city, suggesting a violation of the 10th amendment. The administration plans to appeal the ruling.
Key Facts
A judge stopped President Trump from deploying the National Guard to Portland permanently.
The decision follows a court battle over the legality of sending troops despite local government objections.
The judge ruled that there was no rebellion or immediate danger warranting troop deployment.
The ruling states President Trump violated the 10th amendment, which reserves certain powers to the states.
The Trump administration argues troops are needed to protect federal assets amid protests.
The judge clarified the president could use the National Guard lawfully in other contexts.
The administration is expected to appeal the decision, possibly reaching the Supreme Court.
Local officials and residents dispute the claim of widespread violence in Portland.
A judge ruled that President Trump unlawfully sent National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon. This decision blocks the president from using military forces for local policing in the city. Legal challenges are ongoing, and this case might reach the Supreme Court.
Key Facts
A federal judge, Karin Immergut, ruled against President Trump's order to send National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon.
This is the first permanent ruling to stop the use of military forces for protests against immigration authorities.
Judge Immergut rejected the claim that Portland protesters were engaging in a rebellion.
Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield stated the ruling confirmed President Trump could not deploy the Guard without legal justification.
Portland's mayor and Oregon officials praised the decision as a victory for the rule of law.
The case may continue to the US Supreme Court if appealed by the Trump administration.
Court records show 32 people faced federal charges due to protests, with some charged for assaulting federal officers.
Judges have consistently ruled that the National Guard deployment was not legally justified.
Due to a government shutdown, over 5,000 flights in the US were either cancelled or delayed. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ordered airlines to reduce flights at major airports because air traffic controllers are working without pay. This is causing more staff to call in sick, affecting air travel across the country.
Key Facts
Over 5,000 US flights were cancelled or delayed on Friday.
The FAA ordered a 4% cut in flights at major US airports, which could rise to 10% next week.
The government shutdown has required air traffic controllers to work without pay.
Many controllers are stressed and taking second jobs due to the lack of pay.
The flight reductions started at 40 major US airports to manage staffing shortages.
If the shutdown continues, flight cuts could reach 20%.
The flight reductions have mainly affected domestic flights, not international ones.
Major airlines are offering re-bookings, waivers, or refunds to affected passengers.
An appeals court rejected President Trump's request to stop a judge's order requiring his administration to pay full SNAP benefits by November 7. The USDA now has to issue full benefits by the end of the day to people in the SNAP program.
Key Facts
An appeals court denied President Trump's request to block a ruling about SNAP benefits.
SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which helps low-income people buy food.
The USDA must pay full SNAP benefits by the end of today, November 7.
Earlier, the USDA said it might take weeks or months to roll out the full payments.
Some people were predicted to get about 65% of their normal benefits, but this plan was criticized.
U.S. District Judge John McConnell Jr. ordered that full payments be made by today.
The legal process is ongoing, so there might be more changes later.
The U.S. Senate is in a deadlock over the government shutdown, now in its 38th day. Senate Democrats proposed temporary measures to end the shutdown and extend healthcare subsidies, but Republicans rejected the offer. President Trump and Senate leaders are pushing for an agreement to reopen the government.
Key Facts
The government shutdown has lasted 38 days.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer proposed ending the shutdown and extending healthcare subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune dismissed the proposal, calling it a "nonstarter."
Democrats suggested a bipartisan committee to address healthcare issues after reopening the government.
Thune emphasized that Republicans would discuss healthcare only after the government reopens.
President Trump urged the Senate to remain in session until they reach an agreement.
A group of moderate lawmakers continues to negotiate a possible resolution.
The shutdown affects airport operations, government workers, and food aid for millions.
The long government shutdown and ongoing political troubles are causing many members of Congress to rethink their future plans, with some deciding to retire. Lawmakers are frustrated with the lack of progress in Congress and the current state of U.S. politics.
Key Facts
A historic government shutdown has lasted for 38 days.
Several Congress members, including Rep. Jared Golden and Rep. Chuy García, announced their retirement plans.
Lawmakers are frustrated with gridlock and feel their ability to represent their constituents is reduced.
Rep. Don Bacon also plans to retire, mentioning family reasons and frustration similar to Golden's.
House Speaker Mike Johnson defended keeping the House in recess, stating the House had already done its job.
As of Wednesday, 31 House members have announced plans to run for another office or retire.
Mid-decade redistricting is putting pressure on incumbents and encouraging retirements.
Frustration over political gridlock and lack of progress is widespread among lawmakers.
Airlines in the United States have had to reduce flights due to the ongoing government shutdown, which is the longest in U.S. history. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has instructed airlines to cut their schedules because of staffing issues, and private jet flights may also face reductions. There are calls for private jet owners to stop flying to help ease congestion in the airspace.
Key Facts
The U.S. government shutdown is the longest in the nation's history.
Airlines may need to reduce flights by up to 20% if the shutdown continues.
The FAA initially asked airlines to cut schedules by 4% to manage safety concerns.
Cuts affect travel through 40 major U.S. airports.
Over 700 flight cuts have already happened among the four largest U.S. airlines.
It's unclear how flight reductions apply to private and charter flights, which contribute very little tax to support airspace operations.
Advocacy groups are urging private jet owners to pause flights to free up capacity.
Some commercial flight passengers experience long delays due to a shortage of staff.
The U.S. Supreme Court temporarily blocked a court order requiring full SNAP food aid payments during the government shutdown. This decision allowed the Trump administration to continue issuing partial SNAP payments, affecting millions of Americans who rely on the program. Some states managed to issue full payments before the block was enacted.
Key Facts
The Supreme Court granted an emergency appeal from the Trump administration to pause full SNAP payments during the shutdown.
A lower court had previously ordered the administration to make full payments.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson issued the order to block full payments temporarily.
SNAP serves about 1 in 8 Americans, primarily those with lower incomes.
Some states like Wisconsin, Oregon, and Hawaii issued full payments before the block.
States like California and New Jersey also moved quickly to release full payments.
Full payments were already distributed to some recipients, causing concern over fund depletion.
The Trump administration argued that quick payments drained limited funds, affecting other states.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is open to a one-year extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits to help end the government shutdown. This marks a change from his earlier position that such an extension was unacceptable. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer suggested adding this extension to a government funding bill to reach an agreement.
Key Facts
Hakeem Jeffries is the House Minority Leader and a Democrat from New York.
Jeffries previously called a one-year extension for tax credits "laughable."
He now shows willingness to consider this extension as part of discussions to end the shutdown.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer proposed including the extension in government funding to resolve the shutdown.
Jeffries stated that House Democrats would consider Senate proposals made in "good faith."
The extension is a "non-starter" for many key Republicans, making it unlikely to easily pass.
The Supreme Court temporarily stopped full payments of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This decision comes during a government shutdown, impacting many who rely on SNAP for food assistance. The Trump Administration requested the Supreme Court to review a previous decision to fully fund SNAP during the shutdown.
Key Facts
The Supreme Court issued an emergency order regarding SNAP payments.
SNAP helps around 42 million Americans with food assistance.
The order was a response to an appeal by President Trump's administration.
The order temporarily blocks a ruling from a Rhode Island judge.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson wrote the order.
The Supreme Court's decision means SNAP payments could be delayed during the shutdown.
This involves the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history.
A judge appointed by President Donald Trump blocked his administration's attempt to deploy National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon. This legal decision stops the federal government from sending these troops, focusing on the balance of power between federal and state governments.
Key Facts
A federal judge in Oregon stopped the Trump administration from sending National Guard troops to Portland.
The judge, Karin J. Immergut, was appointed by President Trump.
The ruling includes a permanent injunction, meaning it permanently prevents this action.
The judge found no evidence of rebellion to justify federalizing the National Guard.
The case addresses the balance of power between federal and state governments.
President Trump's administration plans to appeal the decision in a higher court.
The decision affects National Guard troops from several states, including Oregon and California.
President Trump announced plans to have the Justice Department investigate the meatpacking industry. He believes the companies might be working together to unfairly raise meat prices, affecting consumers and cattle ranchers.
Key Facts
President Trump wants the Justice Department to investigate meatpacking companies for possible collusion.
He claims these companies are increasing meat prices unfairly.
Trump believes the high beef prices harm consumers and cattle ranchers.
He stated that action is needed to protect consumers and stop illegal monopolies.
Beef prices have increased significantly over the past year.
Trump made these remarks on the social media platform Truth Social.
This story is developing, meaning more details might come later.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that it will fully fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps provide food to over 42 million Americans. This decision comes after legal actions and a government shutdown that affected the program's funding.
Key Facts
The USDA will fund the SNAP program, which is often called food stamps.
SNAP helps more than 42 million people in the United States get food.
The program's funding faced issues due to a government shutdown lasting 38 days.
A judge initially ordered the Trump administration to use contingency funds to support the program.
The contingency funds were not enough to cover the nearly $9 billion monthly cost.
Another judge later ruled that the Trump administration must fully fund the program.
SNAP is important support for one in every eight Americans.
President Trump highlighted Walmart's cheaper Thanksgiving meal as evidence of his economic success, noting a decrease in the cost compared to previous years. While the meal is less expensive, it includes fewer items and smaller quantities of some foods. Additionally, discussions continue around SNAP benefits, which a court ordered to be released despite the administration's appeal.
Key Facts
President Trump claims Thanksgiving meals are cheaper under his administration compared to last year.
The Walmart Thanksgiving meal price dropped from $7 per person in 2024 to $4 per person in 2025.
The new meal includes 23 items, down from 29 items last year.
Some familiar items, such as fresh onions and sweet potatoes, were removed, and some remaining items are in smaller quantities.
The meal now has cheaper alternatives for some products, like fresh cranberries instead of brand-name sauce.
President Trump criticized media questions about the reduced meal size as "fake news."
A legal issue is underway regarding the release of SNAP benefits, affecting 42 million Americans.
The administration is appealing a court ruling that ordered the release of SNAP funds.
