Dick Cheney, a former U.S. Vice President known for his influence and controversial decisions, has died at age 84. Cheney served in various high-level government roles and played a significant role in shaping U.S. policy during his time in office. He dealt with significant health issues, including heart disease, throughout his life.
Key Facts
Dick Cheney passed away at the age of 84 due to complications from pneumonia, heart, and vascular disease.
Cheney served as Vice President under President George W. Bush and was a significant figure in the Iraq invasion.
He held various government positions, including White House Chief of Staff, U.S. Congressman for Wyoming, and Secretary of Defense.
Cheney was a strong supporter of increased surveillance and interrogation measures after the September 11, 2001 attacks.
He survived five heart attacks and had a heart transplant later in life.
Cheney, a Republican, publicly criticized President Trump and supported Democrat Kamala Harris in a past election.
He turned off the wireless function of his defibrillator to prevent potential terrorist attacks.
Cheney asserted the U.S. military would be welcomed as liberators in Iraq, a prediction that proved inaccurate.
The U.S. State Department has updated its travel advisory for Jamaica, advising Americans to think carefully before going there. The change considers recent adjustments to U.S. embassy operations and damage from Hurricane Melissa, which severely affected the region.
Key Facts
The U.S. State Department maintains a Level 3 travel advisory for Jamaica.
Americans are advised to reconsider travel to Jamaica.
The advisory update reflects changes to U.S. embassy operations.
Hurricane Melissa impacted Jamaica as a Category 5 storm.
The hurricane left at least 40 people dead in the Caribbean.
Hurricane Melissa caused significant damage and flooding.
Over 1.8 million Americans visited Jamaica in 2024.
President Trump is dealing with several challenges in the U.S. this week. These include state elections, Supreme Court discussions on tariffs, and a government shutdown.
Key Facts
President Trump returned after spending a week abroad.
This week, there are important state elections happening.
The Supreme Court is handling arguments about tariffs.
The U.S. government is currently experiencing a shutdown.
President Trump has to address these domestic issues during the week.
Some U.S. states are stepping in to help people relying on SNAP (food assistance) as the federal government shutdown continues. The Trump administration plans to partially fund SNAP following court orders, though it won't cover all benefits. Various states are providing funds or support to ensure SNAP recipients can access food.
Key Facts
The federal government shutdown has paused SNAP benefits, affecting over 42 million people.
President Trump announced partial SNAP funding using emergency funds after court orders.
Eight states and the District of Columbia are taking measures to support SNAP recipients with their funds.
Louisiana will use $150 million, and New Mexico will use $30 million for emergency SNAP support.
Vermont approved $6.3 million to help cover SNAP benefits temporarily.
Many states have increased funding for food banks amid the funding lapse.
Some states, like New York and Oregon, have declared emergencies to access funds for SNAP support.
Fourteen states have not implemented measures to support SNAP recipients during the shutdown.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) now allows states to check voter citizenship using only a person's name and the last four digits of their Social Security number. This update is part of an effort to help states verify voter rolls and enhance election security. Around 26 states have agreements with USCIS to use this verification tool.
Key Facts
USCIS updated the SAVE program to allow citizenship checks with just a name and the last four digits of a Social Security number.
The SAVE program is used by government agencies to confirm immigration or citizenship status.
The change aims to help states confirm voter citizenship as part of election security efforts.
The tool can only be used by states with an agreement with USCIS; about 26 states use or plan to use it.
In 2025, around 205 million status verifications were conducted by both voting and benefit-related agencies.
States decide how to handle any mismatches in verification, not USCIS.
President Donald Trump issued an Executive Order aligning with this change to strengthen voter citizenship verification.
A woman living in a remote part of Oregon found human footprints on her porch one morning, which made her anxious. She later discovered that the footprints were made by her husband, who let their dog out at night without wearing shoes. The initial fear sparked a lot of interest on social media.
Key Facts
The woman lives in La Pine, Oregon, which is a small city in a secluded area.
One morning at 6 A.M., she found human footprints on her porch.
The footprints appeared to be made by someone walking on tiptoe.
Her husband, who was not initially suspected, made the prints when letting their dog out at night.
The woman shared her concern about the footprints on Reddit, receiving many responses and theories.
The incident led to anxiety over potential security concerns, a feeling shared by many due to similar worries.
The online post gained significant attention, but the footprints had a simple explanation.
Newsweek has revived its "Conventional Wisdom" political analysis for the digital age for Election Day. This edition uses arrows to show how different political figures and ideas are currently perceived. The analysis covers various figures and trends in current U.S. politics.
Key Facts
"Conventional Wisdom" is a political analysis tool used by Newsweek to track perceptions of political figures and ideas.
This edition gives different political figures arrows indicating how their influence is changing.
The New York Times is perceived as losing influence in local New York City politics.
Zohran Mamdani, a young Democratic Socialist, ran a campaign that excited progressives but faces challenges in governance.
Curtis Sliwa has run for NYC mayor twice, maintaining consistent branding with his red beret.
Andrew Cuomo acknowledges the importance of social media in politics today, despite his political experience.
Gerrymandering is affecting political competition in several states, impacting moderate members of the House.
Sports fans are relieved that political ads will no longer interrupt their viewing experience.
In the US elections, New York City will elect a new mayor in a race involving a young progressive candidate, Zohran Mamdani, running against the seasoned Andrew Cuomo. Virginia and New Jersey will also choose new governors, and California will vote on whether to redraw its congressional district maps, which is unusual for a mid-decade change. These elections could signal political trends for the upcoming congressional midterm elections.
Key Facts
There are no presidential or congressional elections, but important local races will occur.
New York City is choosing a new mayor, with Zohran Mamdani aiming to be the first Muslim and youngest mayor in over a century.
Andrew Cuomo runs as an independent, having lost the Democratic primary to Mamdani.
California's Proposition 50 would allow a temporary change in congressional district maps.
The proposed redistricting aims to counter changes made by Republican-led states.
In California, 60% of likely voters support Proposition 50, with strong partisan differences.
New Jersey's governor race is tight with candidates Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli.
Virginia is also electing a new governor, which might reflect broader political attitudes.
Newsweek and WalletHub analyzed the best and worst U.S. cities for veterans to live in. Austin, Texas ranked as the best city, while Newark, New Jersey ranked as the worst based on factors like job opportunities and health facilities for veterans.
Key Facts
WalletHub compared the 100 largest cities in the U.S. for veteran-friendly living.
Austin, Texas was the top-ranked city, noted for high veteran income and community support.
Newark, New Jersey was the lowest-ranked city for veterans.
The study considered 19 factors like military-related jobs and veteran health facilities.
Around 200,000 military members return to civilian life each year in the U.S.
Tampa, Florida was praised for its veteran medical facilities and resources.
Cities like Detroit and Baton Rouge were among the 10 worst for veterans.
Veterans need cities with good health care, jobs, and community support according to experts.
Residents in areas east of Longview, Texas, were warned to stay indoors due to high levels of air pollution on Tuesday morning. The pollution was at a level considered unhealthy, particularly affecting vulnerable groups like older people, children, and those with breathing problems.
Key Facts
The area affected is east of Longview, Texas, including Jefferson, Harleton, Marshall, and Scottsville.
The high level of air pollution involved fine particles known as PM2.5.
The pollution was rated as "unhealthy" by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
People with health issues, older adults, and children were advised to avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
Others were also advised to reduce time spent outdoors and to take breaks when outside.
AirNow provided the air quality data, a collaborative effort including the EPA.
More information and updates on air quality were expected following the initial warning.
Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic candidate for New York City mayor, is leading in multiple polls against independent candidate Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani has received endorsements from several influential members of the Democratic Party, while President Donald Trump has endorsed Cuomo.
Key Facts
Zohran Mamdani is the Democratic candidate for New York City mayor.
Mamdani is leading in the polls against Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa.
An AtlasIntel poll shows Mamdani with 44% support, Cuomo with 39%, and Sliwa with 16%.
Mamdani has key endorsements from New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, among others.
President Donald Trump endorsed Andrew Cuomo.
Different polls have shown varying lead margins for Mamdani over Cuomo, ranging from single to double digits.
Voting for the NYC mayoral election ends on November 4, with polls open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
On election day in New York City, voters are choosing a new mayor. The main candidates are Democrat Zohran Mamdani, independent Andrew Cuomo, and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Early voting saw high turnout, especially among young people, and the results could be a significant moment for President Donald Trump, who has warned of potential funding cuts if Mamdani wins.
Key Facts
New York City voters are selecting a new mayor.
Zohran Mamdani is the Democratic candidate and the polling favorite.
Andrew Cuomo, a former governor, runs as an independent candidate.
Curtis Sliwa is the Republican candidate, considered an outsider in the race.
President Trump threatened funding cuts to NYC if Mamdani wins.
Over 735,000 people voted early, with young people showing high participation.
Current Mayor Eric Adams supports Andrew Cuomo.
Polls are open from 6am to 9pm, and anyone in line by 9pm can vote.
The Trump administration announced that SNAP benefits will restart but only at half the usual amount, due to a federal shutdown affecting the program's funds. With benefits delayed, many low-income families and food banks face difficulties, and community efforts to fill the food gap are underway.
Key Facts
SNAP benefits, a food aid program, are delayed because of a government shutdown.
The Trump administration will use a contingency fund to restart SNAP, but only half the normal benefits will be paid.
Officials state that without these funds, no new SNAP applicants can receive benefits in November.
Two federal judges ordered temporary measures to help provide SNAP benefits.
Food banks are seeing increased demand as they try to help families affected by delayed SNAP benefits.
SNAP is the largest anti-hunger program in the U.S., supporting seniors, families with children, and people with disabilities.
Community efforts are in place to support those in need, with local food banks and volunteers stepping in.
The article discusses changes the Trump administration wants to make to the U.S. refugee system, prioritizing English speakers and white immigrants. It also mentions efforts to end birthright citizenship and draws parallels to historical exclusionary immigration policies.
Key Facts
The Trump administration plans to change the U.S. refugee system to favor English speakers and white immigrants.
The U.S. has a history of providing refuge to people fleeing violence and persecution.
The article claims that these changes could affect millions of people seeking refuge.
Refugees have historically made significant contributions to American society.
The administration also aims to end birthright citizenship, which is a right confirmed by the Supreme Court for over a century.
These changes could impact Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, 65% of whom were born outside the U.S.
The article compares these actions to the historical Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882.
Elections are taking place across several states, including key contests in California, New York City, New Jersey, and Virginia. In California, voters will decide on a redistricting proposition that could favor Democrats. New York City, New Jersey, and Virginia are also seeing intense races with notable candidates running for office.
Key Facts
California's Proposition 50 aims to change congressional district lines to favor Democrats.
The redistricting proposition in California could help Democrats gain more seats in future elections.
New York City's mayoral race features Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist, and former Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
Mamdani won the primary by appealing to young voters with a focus on affordability.
In the New Jersey governor's race, Democrat Mikie Sherrill leads slightly over Republican Jack Ciattarelli.
If Sherrill wins, it would be the third consecutive Democratic governor in New Jersey.
President Trump has been supporting Ciattarelli through phone campaigns.
Virginia's governor race also features significant candidates, but specific details were cut off in the text.
Jay Jones and Jason Miyares are in a close race for Virginia's attorney general position. Recent polls show that Jones is slightly ahead, but the difference is very small and within the margin of error. The race has gained attention due to leaked texts from Jones.
Key Facts
Jay Jones and Jason Miyares are candidates for Virginia attorney general.
Polls show a tight race, with neither candidate having a clear lead.
Recent surveys indicate Jones has a slight edge, but it's within the margin of error.
A controversy arose when leaked texts revealed Jones made a violent comment about a former politician, which he apologized for.
One poll by Emerson College/The Hill shows Jones leading 49% to 47%.
Quantus Insights poll found Jones slightly ahead at 47.4% to 46.9%.
An InsiderAdvantage survey also shows Jones with a narrow 49% to 47% lead.
The Trafalgar Group's poll shows Miyares slightly leading with 46.3% to Jones' 45.5%.
Virginia voters are also electing a governor, lieutenant governor, and the House of Delegates members alongside the attorney general.
The Trump administration announced plans to use $4.5 billion in contingency funds to provide partial SNAP payments in November. Some recipients might experience delays in receiving their payments.
Key Facts
The Trump administration plans to use $4.5 billion to fund SNAP payments.
SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which helps low-income individuals buy food.
The funds will cover only partial payments for November 2025.
Some people may have to wait weeks or months to receive these payments.
The announcement was made public on November 4, 2025.
A government shutdown affected the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), with funding delays and reduced benefits for those who rely on it. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins called the program corrupt and claimed to uncover fraud through data collection from some states. Some states refused to share this data, citing privacy laws.
Key Facts
SNAP, a food assistance program, faced funding issues during a government shutdown.
Brooke Rollins, the Agriculture Secretary, described SNAP as corrupt in a press conference.
The Trump administration announced partial restoration of SNAP benefits, but they will be delayed and reduced.
Rollins claimed an investigation into SNAP revealed fraud after collecting data from compliant states.
27 states, mostly Republican-led, provided their SNAP data to the USDA.
Most states with Democratic governors refused to share their data, citing privacy concerns.
A federal judge blocked the USDA from withholding funds from states that did not comply with the data request.
SNAP benefits eligibility does not include undocumented immigrants.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said that the SNAP program has issues with corruption and fraud. She discussed her views on a television show, mentioning that the program needs improvements.
Key Facts
Brooke Rollins is the Agriculture Secretary in the U.S. government.
SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which helps low-income people buy food.
Rollins called SNAP a corrupt program with a lot of fraud.
She shared these thoughts on the TV show "Fox and Friends."
Some of her claims about SNAP require more detailed context.
A pie shop in Florida is giving free pot pies to civilian federal workers on military bases who are not getting paid because of the government shutdown.
Key Facts
A pie shop in Florida is offering free pot pies.
The offer is for civilian federal employees on military bases.
These employees are not receiving pay due to the government shutdown.
The pie shop's gesture is intended to provide some comfort.
The situation is happening during a U.S. federal government shutdown.
