A new bill aims to provide retroactive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the U.S. government shutdown. The "Keep SNAP Funded 5 Act of 2025" was introduced by Senator Josh Hawley and has gained support from other Republican senators. This bill seeks to ensure that people who rely on SNAP for food assistance continue to receive benefits despite the shutdown.
Key Facts
About 42 million Americans depend on SNAP for food assistance.
The U.S. government shutdown has put SNAP benefits at risk.
Senator Josh Hawley introduced the "Keep SNAP Funded 5 Act of 2025."
The bill proposes retroactive SNAP payments during the shutdown.
It has gained support from several Republican senators.
The bill requires enough votes to pass, but its future is uncertain.
The government shutdown stems from a disagreement on funding and the Affordable Care Act’s subsidies.
Experts suggest there is bipartisan support for the bill, but passage remains unclear.
The U.S. Senate continues discussions on the federal government shutdown, now in its 28th day. The shutdown affects millions, with concerns about federal workers not getting paid and food assistance programs potentially running out of funds. Democrats and Republicans remain at a standstill over government funding and related issues.
Key Facts
The government shutdown has lasted 28 days, one of the longest in U.S. history.
Federal workers and military personnel risk missing paychecks due to the shutdown.
The American Federation of Government Employees has urged Congress to fund the government and pay workers.
Funding for the food assistance program, SNAP, is running out, affecting 42 million Americans.
There is disagreement between the Trump administration and Democrats about using emergency funds for SNAP.
The Senate needs 60 votes to pass the funding measure, but has not achieved this yet.
Democrats want any funding bill to also address rising health care costs under the Affordable Care Act.
A judge in Tennessee criticized Attorney General Pam Bondi and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for making public statements about a Salvadoran man accused of human smuggling. The judge stated these statements went against court rules about public comments on pending cases and could affect the fairness of the trial.
Key Facts
A federal judge in Tennessee criticized top government officials for their public comments about a legal case.
Officials involved were Attorney General Pam Bondi and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
The case concerns Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a man deported then returned to face human smuggling charges.
The judge said these comments broke a court rule limiting what officials can say publicly about ongoing cases.
The judge did not issue a gag order but told federal prosecutors to remind all DOJ and DHS employees about these limits.
Abrego Garcia was mistakenly deported but was returned to the U.S. after court orders.
He is facing charges related to transporting undocumented immigrants and has pleaded not guilty.
House Republicans released a report criticizing former President Joe Biden's use of an autopen for signing documents. The report questions Biden's awareness of actions taken during his presidency but provides no hard evidence. It suggests investigating Biden's aides and medical team while urging a review of some actions taken during his term.
Key Facts
House Republicans unveiled a report on former President Joe Biden's use of an autopen.
The report claims Biden may have been unaware of actions taken during his presidency but lacks solid evidence.
Republicans call for an investigation by Attorney General Pam Bondi.
The report focused on Biden's mental state and decision-making capabilities.
It included criticism of Biden's doctor and aides, suggesting they obstructed transparency.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has kept the House out of session for nearly a month.
Democrats denounced the investigation as a distraction.
Biden's inner circle members invoked the Fifth Amendment during the inquiry.
Newsweek created a map using data from WalletHub, a finance website, to show the best U.S. cities for Halloween in 2025. The rankings consider factors like safety, festive activities, and weather, with New York City ranked highest. Americans are expected to spend a significant amount on Halloween-related items this year.
Key Facts
WalletHub published a list of the best U.S. cities for Halloween in 2025.
The ranking is based on factors like safety, fun activities, and weather.
New York City is ranked as the top city for Halloween in 2025 due to population density, walkability, and many Halloween stores.
Jersey City and Los Angeles follow New York in the rankings for their child-friendly environments and festive attractions.
Americans are projected to spend an average of $114.45 per household on Halloween this year.
Total consumer spending on Halloween is expected to be $13.1 billion.
WalletHub's methodology uses 20 metrics to analyze the 100 largest U.S. cities.
The data highlights the importance of safety and festivities in choosing where to celebrate Halloween.
Thousands of people in several U.S. states have been warned to stay out of the water due to dangerous conditions like strong currents and large waves. The National Weather Service has issued warnings and advisories in states including North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, and Florida. These warnings caution about risks such as rip currents, coastal flooding, and hazardous swimming conditions.
Key Facts
The National Weather Service issued beach hazard and rip current statements in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, and Florida.
Rip currents can pull swimmers away from shore, leading to potential injuries such as neck and back injuries.
Strong currents can make it hard for swimmers to return to the shore.
North Carolina has a coastal flood advisory expecting up to three feet of flooding in low-lying areas.
Virginia's coastal flood advisories are in effect until Thursday, expecting up to one foot of flooding.
Beach hazard statements in North Carolina warn of dangerous rip currents and large waves.
Florida shorelines in Volusia and Brevard counties have a beach hazard statement in effect.
The National Weather Service advises inexperienced swimmers to stay out of the water and provides safety tips if caught in a rip current.
The New York City mayoral race is nearing its end, with Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani leading in multiple polls against his rivals, former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani, supported by progressives, aims to overcome moderate resistance within his party, while Cuomo is trying to build a centrist coalition.
Key Facts
New York City voters will choose their next mayor soon.
Zohran Mamdani is the Democratic candidate, backed by progressives.
Andrew Cuomo, a former governor, is running as an independent.
Republican Curtis Sliwa is also in the race.
Mamdani leads in several polls, but with varying levels of support.
A Suffolk University poll shows Mamdani leading Cuomo by 10 points.
Cuomo has narrowed the gap compared to previous months, gaining more support from Hispanic and independent voters.
The election is crucial because the new mayor will address key city issues like housing, affordability, and public safety.
A Utah man named Tyler Robinson is charged with killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk. He will appear in court in street clothes but must be restrained for safety reasons. A Senate subcommittee is holding a hearing on political violence related to the case.
Key Facts
Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old from Utah, is charged with the murder of Charlie Kirk.
Robinson will wear street clothes at his court appearances but will be restrained for safety.
Judge Tony Graf ruled that Robinson should not appear in jail clothing to protect his presumption of innocence.
Prosecutors have charged Robinson with aggravated murder and are seeking the death penalty.
Robinson allegedly shot Kirk from a rooftop at Utah Valley University on September 10.
Robinson turned himself in a day after the shooting, aiding law enforcement through family connections.
Prosecutors presented text messages and DNA evidence linking Robinson to the crime.
Senate subcommittee holds a hearing on political violence connected to this case.
House Republicans have asked the Department of Justice to investigate claims that President Joe Biden's aides used an autopen, a device for mechanical signing, to approve executive actions without his direct involvement. They allege a cover-up about Biden's health and question the validity of certain actions, including presidential pardons. The report from the House Oversight Committee accuses Biden's staff of hiding details from the public, but Democrats dismiss these claims as politically driven.
Key Facts
Republicans call for a DOJ investigation into what's called Biden’s "Autopen Presidency."
Claims suggest aides used an autopen to sign executive actions without Biden's direct approval.
The report questions the validity of executive actions like pardons, particularly those involving Biden’s family.
The House Oversight Committee claims Biden's staff and physician hid his declining health.
Oversight Chair James Comer requested a DOJ review and referred Biden's physician to a medical board.
Key aides were reported to have used the Fifth Amendment and did not answer the committee's questions.
Democrats on the committee believe the probe is a distraction with no supporting evidence.
President Donald Trump's approval rating is lower in 12 states that he won in the 2024 election, according to a Civiqs poll. These states include seven key swing states and five others where more people disapprove than approve of his job performance.
Key Facts
The Civiqs poll shows Trump’s approval rating is negative in 12 states he won in 2024.
These states include swing states: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.
Other states with low approval ratings for Trump are Alaska, Florida, Iowa, Ohio, and Texas.
The approval ratings indicate more people disapprove of Trump’s performance than approve.
Trump won Alaska by over 13 percentage points, but his net approval there is now -1.
In swing states like Michigan and Nevada, Trump's net approval is -12.
Trump's approval ratings could impact the 2026 midterm elections and the balance of power in Congress.
President Donald Trump claims he has the right to use the military at his discretion and make legal judgments about his actions without external approval. This could set new limits on presidential power in the U.S., affecting future presidents. The current checks on this power by Congress and the Supreme Court appear limited.
Key Facts
President Trump believes he can use the military without needing approval from Congress or state governors.
Trump claims he can decide the legality of his actions himself.
The Supreme Court and Congress have shown limited involvement in addressing these claims.
Trump’s actions may allow future presidents to wield similar power.
Trump has invoked emergencies to bypass normal checks and balances, such as using military force in the Caribbean.
The idea of expanding presidential power is not new but is being pushed further than before.
Some people in Trump's administration have shown interest in increasing federal control over state elections, though no plans have been formally discussed.
California is experiencing a heatwave, with the National Weather Service issuing heat advisories for several Southern California areas. Residents are advised to avoid the sun and stay in air-conditioned spaces due to temperatures reaching into the 90s. The heatwave poses health risks, especially for older adults and children.
Key Facts
The National Weather Service has issued heat advisories in Southern California.
Temperatures are expected to reach the mid-90s Fahrenheit.
Affected areas include the Inland Empire, Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura County, and San Diego valleys.
The alerts are active from Tuesday morning through Wednesday evening.
Extreme heat can cause health problems, particularly for older people, children, and those without air conditioning.
People are advised to drink fluids, stay indoors, and check on vulnerable individuals.
The heat advisories are expected to expire at 7 p.m. PDT on Wednesday.
States across the U.S. are changing congressional district boundaries, known as redistricting, in preparation for the 2026 elections. Both Democrats and Republicans are making these changes to gain political advantage. Key political figures from both parties are encouraging state lawmakers to draw maps favoring their political party.
Key Facts
Redistricting is happening as states prepare for the 2026 elections.
Redistricting involves changing the lines of voting districts, which can affect political power.
Some states are bypassing independent commissions to redraw maps themselves.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is pushing for Democrats to gain more seats in Illinois.
Indiana lawmakers are meeting to discuss changing maps to reduce Democratic seats.
President Donald Trump influenced recent map changes in Texas to reduce Democratic seats.
Challenges exist, as leaders in some states face resistance to changing maps.
People in the U.S. are spending more time stuck in traffic than ever before, averaging 63 hours annually. This increase in traffic congestion follows changes in driving patterns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, with significant delays now occurring during midday as well as traditional rush hours.
Key Facts
The average U.S. car commuter spends 63 hours a year in traffic.
This is the highest level of traffic congestion since 1982.
Traffic patterns have changed since the COVID-19 pandemic, with more midday congestion.
Traditional rush hours are returning, but Thursday now sees more delays than Friday.
Delivery trucks are contributing to increased traffic.
Between 2019 and 2024, cities like San Francisco, San Diego, and Miami saw large increases in traffic delays.
Some cities, like Washington, D.C., Boston, and Austin, experienced decreases in traffic delays.
Solutions proposed include expanding roads, improving public transportation, and using new traffic technologies.
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A report from a GOP-led House panel claims internal conflict in Joe Biden’s team following a poor debate performance, with some aides advising him to drop out of the race due to health concerns. The report includes testimony from Biden's chief of staff and others, but some aides refused to answer questions and the full transcripts have not been released. The report suggests there were noticeable issues with Biden's health and capability, although these are debated by his team.
Key Facts
A GOP-led House panel released a report on Joe Biden's team after a debate.
The report says some top aides wanted Biden to leave the presidential race due to concerns about his health.
Biden's chief of staff, Jeff Zients, expressed his concerns to Biden after the debate.
The report is based on several months of interviews with Biden’s inner circle.
Three aides refused to answer questions, using the Fifth Amendment.
Critics say the report only represents the Republican perspective and doesn't include full interview transcripts.
The report calls Biden's handling one of the biggest scandals in U.S. history and urges investigation.
The report suggests that Biden had difficulty with names and dates, linked to his age.
Republicans are disagreeing over who is to blame for their struggles in stopping a California redistricting ballot measure called Proposition 50. This measure, if it passes, could help Democrats gain congressional seats. A recent poll shows that the measure has strong support among voters.
Key Facts
Proposition 50 is a ballot measure in California that could help Democrats gain congressional seats if approved.
California Governor Gavin Newsom supports the redistricting measure.
A CBS News/YouGov poll indicates 62% of voters support Proposition 50.
President Trump's political team, House GOP leaders, and former Speaker Kevin McCarthy are working to oppose the measure.
Over $60 million has been raised by Republicans for the campaign against Prop 50, with contributions from both GOP efforts and donor Charles Munger Jr.
Ashley Hayek, president of America First Works, faced criticism for suggesting the measure might pass.
Internal GOP tensions have affected fundraising efforts after a controversial donor meeting.
Some Republicans point fingers at others within their party for poor campaign management against Proposition 50.
Vermont Governor Phil Scott mentioned that his state, along with others, might sue President Trump's administration because SNAP benefits won't be given out in November due to a government shutdown. The USDA won't use emergency funds to cover these benefits without new funding approval. The government shutdown began on October 1 and affects millions who rely on SNAP benefits for groceries.
Key Facts
Around 42 million Americans depend on SNAP benefits, used to buy food.
SNAP benefits for November won't be issued due to the government shutdown starting on October 1.
The USDA decided not to use $5 billion in emergency funds without new government funding.
Vermont and other states are considering legal action against the USDA.
Governor Phil Scott noted bipartisan support for a lawsuit to release emergency funds.
The USDA said using emergency funds could impact other programs like WIC and school lunch programs.
SNAP benefits will remain unpaid until the government shutdown ends.
A Michigan candy company is recalling certain bars because they might contain nuts not listed on the packaging. This recall affects Peanut Butter Crush bars, which may contain undeclared cashews, and Ca$hew Cow bars, which may contain undeclared peanuts. The recall was initiated after an issue was found in the production and packaging process.
Key Facts
Zingerman’s Candy Manufactory is recalling two types of candy bars.
The recall is due to undeclared nuts: cashews in Peanut Butter Crush bars and peanuts in Ca$hew Cow bars.
The recall affects products distributed in Michigan and New York.
The lot numbers for the recalled products are 17425 and 174250.
The problem was found because the packaging did not list these nuts.
The issue was due to a temporary breakdown in the production process.
The FDA noted no illnesses have been reported so far.
Consumers can return the affected products for a full refund.
President Donald Trump praised Scott Bessent and is thinking about making him the next Chairman of the Federal Reserve. However, President Trump mentioned that he does not expect his Secretary of the Treasury to want the job.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump is considering Scott Bessent for the Federal Reserve Chairman position.
President Trump spoke positively about Scott Bessent.
The Federal Reserve is the central bank of the United States.
The Chairman of the Federal Reserve plays a key role in U.S. economic policy.
President Trump mentioned that his Secretary of the Treasury is unlikely to want the role.
This update is part of a breaking news story with more details expected later.
