President Donald Trump has not introduced a three-day workweek, despite viral claims on social media. The claims emerged from misinterpretations of a separate proposal for a 32-hour workweek, which has not been passed or associated with President Trump.
Key Facts
President Trump is not behind any change to a three-day or 32-hour workweek.
A post claiming Congress passed a 32-hour workweek went viral in April.
Similar false claims resurfaced on TikTok from September to October.
These social media posts sometimes involve AI-generated false news.
A real proposal for a 32-hour workweek was introduced for Capitol Hill staff but was quickly withdrawn.
The idea sparked debate but is not linked to any actions by President Trump.
AI technology has been used to create deepfakes, contributing to the spread of false information online.
A new poll shows that former Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown now has a slight lead over Republican Jon Husted in the upcoming Ohio Senate election. Brown's lead in the poll is small and within the margin of error but represents a shift from previous polls where Husted was ahead. The special Senate election in Ohio is set for November 3, 2026, to fill the remainder of JD Vance's term.
Key Facts
Sherrod Brown is a former Democratic Senator who served Ohio from 2007 to 2025.
Brown currently has a 49% support rate compared to 48% for his Republican rival Jon Husted, according to a new poll.
The poll surveyed 800 registered voters and has a margin of error of +/- 4.5 percentage points.
The Ohio Senate election will fill the remaining term of JD Vance, who left the seat to become vice president.
Ohio has become more Republican in recent years, but the Democrats aim to regain ground in the upcoming elections.
Previous polls had shown Husted leading; an Emerson College Polling survey in August had Husted at 50% and Brown at 44%.
The Cook Political Report and Sabato's Crystal Ball now classify the Ohio Senate race as "Leans Republican."
Federal judges have raised concerns about the Department of Justice under Attorney General Pam Bondi. These concerns include allegations that department lawyers have misled courts and ignored judicial orders, leading to questions about the government's honesty and respect for the rule of law.
Key Facts
Federal judges are frustrated with the Department of Justice under Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Judges claim DOJ lawyers have misled courts or ignored orders.
A whistleblower, Erez Reuveni, alleged he was fired for refusing to sign a false document in a deportation case.
Reuveni stated that DOJ officials instructed lawyers to ignore court orders regarding deportations.
U.S. District Judge James Boasberg questioned a DOJ attorney about deportation flights proceeding despite court hearings.
Peter Keisler emphasized that the DOJ must follow court orders even in disagreement.
Reuveni filed a whistleblower complaint with the Government Accountability Project.
The DOJ has not commented publicly on these allegations.
Millions of Americans will receive their Social Security payments this week despite the ongoing government shutdown, as the program is funded separately. These payments are important, as nearly 40 million people rely on them for at least half of their monthly income.
Key Facts
Social Security payments will be sent this week to those with birthdays between the 21st and 31st.
The government shutdown does not affect Social Security payments because it's funded separately.
About 40 million Americans depend on Social Security for at least half of their monthly income.
Social Security sends payments on different days based on the recipient's birthday and program details.
The average monthly retirement benefit was about $2,006.69 as of July 2023.
Payments differ based on age, with maximum benefits reaching $5,108 for those retiring at 70.
If a payment is late, recipients should wait three business days before contacting the SSA.
The Supplemental Security Income program provides monthly help to low-income seniors and people with disabilities.
A study by the National Foundation for American Policy warns that President Trump's immigration policies could significantly reduce the U.S. labor force and slow economic growth. This report predicts declines in economic output and increases in federal debt, as restrictive immigration measures might hinder job growth and productivity.
Key Facts
The study suggests the U.S. labor force could drop by 6.8 million people by 2028 and 15.7 million by 2035.
Changes in immigration policy, including reduced refugee admissions and travel bans, contribute to this projected decline.
The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) might decrease by $1.9 trillion from 2025 to 2028 and by $12.1 trillion by 2035.
Federal public debt could rise by $252 billion by 2028 and $1.74 trillion by 2035 due to these policies.
Foreign-born workers made up about 85% of new workers between 2019 and 2024.
The Department of Labor noted that immigration enforcement affects agriculture and food prices negatively.
Abigail Jackson of the White House stated that the administration aims to create jobs for American workers.
The report highlights that tighter immigration rules may slow job growth and productivity, impacting living standards.
Green card holders in the U.S. will now face a more challenging path to citizenship due to a new civics test that started on October 20. This updated test is part of changes under President Trump's administration aimed at tightening immigration policies.
Key Facts
A new 2025 Naturalization Civics Test for U.S. citizenship applicants came into effect on October 20.
Applicants must now answer 12 out of 20 questions correctly to pass, up from 6 out of 10 in the previous test.
The new test includes a pool of 128 questions, combining items from the 2008 and 2020 tests.
Special rules apply for applicants aged 65 and older who have been residents for at least 20 years.
The Trump administration has increased scrutiny on immigrants' moral character and adherence to American values.
Applicants can retake the test if they fail, but failing twice will result in application denial.
The question pool has expanded to cover U.S. history, government, and national symbols more comprehensively.
A company in California recalled over 91,000 pounds of breakfast burritos and wraps due to possible listeria contamination. The recall affects products distributed across the U.S. that are part of the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs. So far, no illnesses from these products have been reported.
Key Facts
M.C.I. Foods issued a recall for 91,585 pounds of burritos and wraps.
The recall is due to possible contamination with listeria, a harmful bacteria.
The affected products are part of the U.S. National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs.
The specific products include several types of breakfast burritos and wraps with various lot codes.
No confirmed illnesses have been reported from eating the recalled products as of October 18.
Listeria can cause serious infections, especially in older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
M.C.I. Foods found the issue during routine ingredient testing.
The contaminated products have establishment numbers "EST. 1162A" or "P-5890A" on the USDA inspection mark.
Karine Jean-Pierre, who served as the White House Press Secretary under President Joe Biden, discussed her new book "Independent" in an interview. She explained her writing process, her life after leaving the White House, and touched on her experiences as Press Secretary. The book is not a memoir but aims to provide guidance on dealing with current political challenges.
Key Facts
Karine Jean-Pierre served as White House Press Secretary from May 13, 2022, to January 20, 2025.
She was the first openly queer person and the first Black woman since 1991 to hold the Press Secretary role.
Her book, "Independent," started in the spring and is not a memoir but offers insights into political engagement.
Jean-Pierre wrote the book to answer questions she faced about moving forward and engaging in politics.
She has taken time off since leaving the White House to focus on personal matters, including caring for her mother.
Jean-Pierre has not watched briefings of the current Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt.
She described the Press Secretary role as one of the hardest jobs but also a crucial and factual one on behalf of the American public.
President Trump and the federal government are taking actions that involve controlling speech and punishing critics. This includes prosecuting political opponents and influencing how government power is used. Trump's administration has been active in pursuing these actions publicly.
Key Facts
President Trump and the federal government are focusing on controlling speech and punishing individuals.
Trump has a history of promising to prosecute political opponents and is delivering on these promises.
Former FBI Director James Comey was recently indicted after being mentioned in Trump’s social media post.
New York Attorney General Tish James, another critic of Trump, was charged with bank fraud, a charge she denied.
John Bolton, a former national security adviser under Trump, is facing charges related to mishandling classified information.
Trump's actions show he is fulfilling campaign promises from his second term election.
A Trump adviser noted that the administration is now more experienced and united in executing Trump’s agenda.
Critics describe this approach as part of what they call "consequence culture."
The Supreme Court is reviewing a case to decide if people who smoke marijuana regularly can legally own guns. This decision could affect gun ownership rights for marijuana users.
Key Facts
The Supreme Court is involved in a case about marijuana use and gun rights.
The case will determine if regular marijuana users can legally own guns.
This is considered an important legal issue in the U.S.
Marijuana is still illegal under federal law.
The decision could impact the rights of marijuana users nationwide.
Professional golfer Phil Mickelson has urged President Donald Trump to send National Guard troops to San Francisco, claiming the city needs saving. President Trump has suggested he may send troops to San Francisco to address crime, a move opposed by California Governor Gavin Newsom and other local officials. The debate centers on whether federal intervention is necessary in San Francisco.
Key Facts
Phil Mickelson supports President Trump sending National Guard troops to San Francisco.
President Trump has previously authorized federal troops in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.
California Governor Gavin Newsom disagrees with the potential use of troops in San Francisco, citing decreased crime rates.
Trump stated he believes San Francisco's problems started 15 years ago, and he aims to "make it great again."
Some business leaders, like Elon Musk and Marc Benioff, have at times shown support for federal intervention.
San Francisco officials, including Mayor Daniel Lurie, oppose federal troop deployment, saying local law enforcement is sufficient.
Critics argue that President Trump's actions focus on Democratic-led areas and exceed executive authority.
Thousands of people in several U.S. states have been warned to stay out of the water due to dangerous beach conditions. The National Weather Service has issued beach hazard statements and coastal flood advisories in areas across Oregon, Washington, California, North Carolina, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
Key Facts
The National Weather Service issued warnings for dangerous swimming conditions due to large waves and rip currents.
States affected include Oregon, Washington, California, North Carolina, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
In California, areas like San Francisco and Monterey Bay are at risk of sneaker waves that can reach up to 22 feet.
Rip currents are a primary concern in North Carolina until Monday evening.
Coastal flood advisories predict flooding of up to one foot in low-lying areas in states like Maryland and New Jersey.
Sneaker waves are unexpected and can drag people into the ocean suddenly, posing serious dangers.
The NWS advises people to stay alert, avoid steep beaches, and keep a safe distance from the water.
People are advised to be cautious near the water as waves and conditions can change quickly.
On a recent Saturday, millions of people protested against President Trump's policies across the United States and in some countries abroad. Organizers estimated up to 7 million attendees, marking it as one of the largest single-day protests in U.S. history. States like New York, California, and Illinois saw the largest turnouts, while places like Nebraska and South Dakota had very few participants.
Key Facts
Protests took place in every U.S. state as well as in the UK, Spain, and Portugal.
Organizers estimated nearly 7 million people joined the protests nationwide.
New York had the highest estimated attendance with about 380,000 participants.
Nebraska and South Dakota had the lowest turnout with approximately 500 people each.
Vermont had the highest turnout per capita, with one in every 23 people attending.
President Trump dismissed the protests as unrepresentative and suggested they were funded by political opponents.
The event was part of a series of mass mobilizations against President Trump since his return to office in January.
Strength In Numbers provided an analysis estimating at least 5.2 million participants based on various reports.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has implemented a rule requiring airlines to ignore "X" gender markers on passports and instead use "M" for male or "F" for female. This rule is in line with an executive order from President Trump. The court upheld the validity of passports with "X" markers, even as the rule creates complications for travel involving these documents.
Key Facts
Airlines must ignore "X" gender markers on passports, following a rule by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
This change comes from an executive order by President Trump titled "Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government."
The "X" marker for gender was available on U.S. passports starting in 2022.
Passports with "X" markers are still valid travel documents, following a federal court order.
President Trump's administration has moved to roll back some protections for transgender individuals.
The "X" gender marker allowed individuals to self-identify their gender without needing medical documentation.
Airlines are instructed to input "M" or "F" if a passport shows an "X" gender marker.
Jody’s Inc. has recalled a popcorn product due to undeclared peanuts, which pose a serious risk to people with peanut allergies. The company urges consumers to return the affected bags for a refund as a precautionary measure.
Key Facts
Jody’s Inc. is recalling Cabot Creamery Sea Salt Caramel Cheddar Popcorn because it may contain peanuts not listed on the label.
The recall applies to 6-ounce bags with lot number 2519907B1 and a "Best If Enjoyed By" date of July 15, 2026.
No illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported so far.
The popcorn was distributed nationwide from July 23, starting from a warehouse in Virginia to various states including California, Florida, and Massachusetts.
Customers are advised to return the product for a full refund or dispose of it safely.
The recall is voluntary and in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The FDA has classified undeclared peanuts as a life threat for people who are allergic.
A Republican city council member in Florida, Chandler Langevin, called for the mass deportation of Indian immigrants through social media posts. His remarks led to public criticism, a censure from the Palm Bay City Council, and calls for his removal by fellow officials. The controversy has sparked responses from community leaders and advocacy groups.
Key Facts
Chandler Langevin, a Republican member of the Palm Bay City Council, posted on social media calling for the deportation of Indian immigrants.
Langevin's comments received widespread criticism from both political and community figures.
The Palm Bay City Council voted 3-2 to censure Langevin, which limits his council duties and involves review for possible ethics violations.
Palm Bay officials formally asked Governor Ron DeSantis to consider removing Langevin from his position.
Critics from various organizations and political parties condemned Langevin's posts as offensive and divisive.
Residents at council meetings expressed mixed opinions, with some supporting his right to free speech and others calling for his resignation.
Zohran Mamdani is leading in polls and betting odds for the New York City mayoral race, ahead of his opponents Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani, a democratic socialist, has gained support for his progressive policies and endorsements from notable figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders. If elected, Mamdani would become New York City's first Muslim mayor.
Key Facts
Zohran Mamdani is leading the New York City mayoral race in betting odds and polls.
Mamdani is a member of the New York State Assembly and identifies as a democratic socialist.
His platform includes policies like rent freezes and city-owned grocery stores.
Mamdani has endorsements from Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders.
Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent, has the second highest odds in the race.
Curtis Sliwa, the Republican candidate, is trailing far behind in both odds and polling.
A recent Fox News poll shows Mamdani with 52% support, Cuomo with 28%, and Sliwa with 14%.
Mamdani's odds increased from 88.3% to 92.8% in one week.
Property taxes have become a significant concern for American homeowners as home values have increased due to the pandemic. The median property tax bill in the U.S. was $3,500 last year, but some states have much lower taxes. West Virginia, Alabama, and Arkansas have the lowest taxes, while states like New Jersey and New Hampshire have the highest.
Key Facts
The median property tax bill in the U.S. was $3,500 last year.
West Virginia has the lowest median property tax at $728.
Alabama and Arkansas follow with median property taxes of $804 and $871, respectively.
States with the highest property taxes include New Jersey ($9,413) and New Hampshire ($7,715).
Several states, led by Republican lawmakers, are considering reducing or eliminating property taxes.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has shown support for abolishing the state's property tax.
There is skepticism about eliminating property taxes without harming public services or increasing other taxes.
No U.S. state has completely eliminated property taxes yet.
The Philadelphia District Attorney's office is under scrutiny after discovering human remains believed to be missing woman Kada Scott. Keon King, already charged in connection with Scott's disappearance, is criticized for being previously released on bail despite past offenses. District Attorney Larry Krasner faces criticism for not pursuing King's earlier charges more aggressively.
Key Facts
Human remains thought to be Kada Scott's were found in a wooded area in Philadelphia.
Authorities charged Keon King with kidnapping and stalking related to Scott’s case.
King was previously released on bail in a separate case earlier this year.
District Attorney Larry Krasner faced criticism for handling the prior case against King and for blaming the bail system.
DNA identified the remains as belonging to Scott, confirmed by unnamed sources.
Critics argue Philadelphia’s handling of violent crimes needs improvement.
There is ongoing public debate about criminal justice policies and how they affect public safety.
New York City's suburbs, like Westchester County, are seeing a rise in housing demand from wealthy residents. This increase is linked to the "Mamdani effect," named after Zohran Mamdani, whose mayoral primary win prompted fears of higher taxes among high-earning residents.
Key Facts
Zohran Mamdani is a Democratic Socialist state assemblyman poised to become New York City’s next mayor.
Mamdani won the Democratic mayoral primary against notable opponents by promising to make the city more affordable.
His proposed policies include free buses for residents, rent freezes, and higher taxes on the wealthy.
Wealthy New Yorkers are considering moving to suburbs or states with lower taxes, like Florida.
Westchester County has seen a 15% increase in homes going under contract since August 1 compared to last year.
Housing inventory in Westchester has dropped by over 70% from pre-pandemic levels.
Some homes in Westchester are entering bidding wars and selling for significantly over the asking price.
Concerns over potential increased taxes in New York City are driving the demand for suburban homes.
