Republican governors in several U.S. states have called on the National Guard to be ready for nationwide protests against President Trump's policies. The "No Kings" protests, organized to challenge what they view as Trump's authoritarian approach, are planned at over 2,500 sites across the country. Some Republicans have criticized the protests as anti-American, while some Democrats criticize the use of the National Guard.
Key Facts
Republican governors in some states are preparing by activating the National Guard for protests against President Trump.
The "No Kings" protests are planned at 2,500 locations in the U.S.
The protests are meant to oppose Trump's political agenda.
Protest organizers claim Trump acts like a king, which they aim to challenge.
Previous "No Kings" protests saw over five million participants.
Texas and Virginia are among the states activating the National Guard.
Some Republicans call the protests "Hate America" rallies.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott activated the National Guard due to concerns about Antifa-linked demonstrations.
A caregiver's guide provides practical advice to those caring for ill or elderly adults. It includes tips on navigating the U.S. healthcare system, managing stress, and seeking support. The guide emphasizes the importance of self-care and adapting to changing family dynamics.
Key Facts
The guide is aimed at caregivers for ill or elderly adults in the U.S.
Nearly 600 caregivers contributed advice and stories to NPR.
Managing medical needs and understanding healthcare is a key challenge.
Caregiving changes one's life and requires new adjustments.
Seeking help from support groups or friends is crucial for caregivers.
Self-care involves maintaining mental and physical health, not just leisure activities.
The caregiver role can change relationships within the family.
Arnold Schwarzenegger, actor and former California Governor, shared his plan to improve democracy on a talk show. His suggestions include making Election Day a national holiday, using independent commissions for fair redistricting, and implementing voter ID laws. These ideas aim to appeal to both major political parties in the United States.
Key Facts
Arnold Schwarzenegger discussed his plan on the show "Real Time with Bill Maher."
His plan features three main ideas: making Election Day a national holiday, independent redistricting commissions, and voter ID laws.
These proposals mix ideas supported by Democrats and Republicans.
Schwarzenegger criticized Proposition 50 in California, which he views as a threat to fair redistricting.
He believes that having independent commissions could prevent lawmakers from drawing district maps for political gain.
President Trump disagrees with Schwarzenegger’s view on Proposition 50 and plans to challenge it legally.
Schwarzenegger wants to create a plan that attracts support from both political parties to improve democracy in the U.S.
Large protests organized by the "No Kings" movement are expected to happen across the United States on Saturday. The protests aim to express opposition to President Trump's policies, which the organizers compare to monarchical behavior. Increased security measures, like National Guard mobilizations, have been prepared by some state governors.
Key Facts
The "No Kings" protests are planned for Saturday across the U.S.
Organizers criticize President Trump for acting like a king, not an elected official.
The protests are a response to policies on immigration, education, and the environment.
Organizers expect even more people than the 5 million who participated in June.
Virginia and Texas have mobilized their National Guards for the protests.
Opposition voices from Republicans label the event anti-American.
The protests are intended to be peaceful, emphasizing community and solidarity.
The U.S. Census Bureau released data showing the average age people get married in each U.S. state. Marriage ages have been rising over the years, with finances and cultural changes influencing when people choose to marry. The census also noted the differences in average marriage age among different states and genders.
Key Facts
In 2023, the average age of marriage in the U.S. is 30.2 for men and 28.4 for women.
New York, Massachusetts, California, and Connecticut have some of the oldest average marriage ages, all over 31.
Utah has the youngest average marriage age: 26.8 for men and 25.2 for women.
The age gap between men and women at marriage varies widely among states, such as Hawaii with a difference of over five years.
Mississippi is unique with women marrying at a slightly older age (28.2) than men (27.6).
The U.S. government, under President Trump's administration, is supporting marriage and families with over $100 million in grants for healthy marriages.
The Department of Transportation is prioritizing areas with higher birth and marriage rates.
Economic and cultural shifts have made marriage a "capstone" rather than a "cornerstone" event, with financial stability often a prerequisite.
A federal judge expanded a temporary restraining order to prevent federal worker layoffs during the U.S. government shutdown. This order affects several unions, making it more difficult for the Trump administration to implement mass layoffs as a pressure tactic in negotiations.
Key Facts
A federal judge expanded a restraining order to stop layoffs of federal workers.
The restraining order now includes more unions, protecting additional workers.
The Trump administration had proposed mass layoffs amid a government shutdown.
The shutdown began on October 1 because the Senate did not pass an appropriations bill.
Democrats want an extension of health insurance subsidies as part of the negotiations.
The Department of Justice must report how many layoffs were planned and protected.
The restraining order complicates the administration's strategy to pressure Democrats.
A U.S. Marine pilot died and another was injured after their helicopter crashed in the California desert during a training exercise. The crash involved an AH-1Z Viper helicopter from the "Gunfighters" squadron. An investigation into the incident is currently underway.
Key Facts
The crash happened on Thursday evening, October 16, 2025, in Imperial County, California.
The helicopter was part of the Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369, nicknamed the "Gunfighters."
The crash occurred during a training mission for the Marine Corps Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course.
One pilot was pronounced dead at a hospital in Brawley, California.
The second pilot was injured and is currently in stable condition at another hospital.
The Marine Corps has not released the identity of the deceased pilot as they need to notify the family first.
An official safety investigation has begun and could last several months.
The investigation will review maintenance records, flight data, and environmental factors to determine the cause.
The U.S. government shutdown has led to Capitol Police officers missing their paychecks. These officers continue to work without pay, protecting lawmakers at the Capitol. The situation highlights the ongoing issues and disagreements among lawmakers about ending the shutdown.
Key Facts
Capitol Police officers missed their first paycheck on October 10 due to the government shutdown.
The officers continue to work, despite not getting paid, providing security for lawmakers.
Terry Gainer, a former Capitol Police chief, mentioned the job’s challenges, especially during current times with increasing threats.
There are ongoing debates in Congress about the shutdown, with different parties blaming each other for the delay in resolution.
President Trump's administration has considered ways to reallocate funds to pay federal law enforcement, but there are legal concerns.
Officer Gus Papathanasiou, the union chair, urged lawmakers to end the shutdown, emphasizing financial pressures on officers.
Some officers feel slighted by past political events, including the pardons of January 6 rioters.
Capitol Police union is seeking an apology after an incident involving Rep. Nanette Barragán during a protest.
Portland Mayor Keith Wilson expressed concerns about the conditions at the local ICE facility after a visit with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Wilson described the facility as disorganized and poorly maintained, which he believes poses risks. The mayor criticized the federal administration's handling of security issues in Portland and called for better standards and accountability.
Key Facts
Mayor Keith Wilson of Portland visited an ICE facility with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
Wilson described the ICE facility as messy and poorly maintained, with issues like overflowing dumpsters and a broken air conditioning system.
Employees at the facility reportedly work in poor conditions, lacking pay due to a government shutdown.
Wilson criticized the federal government's rhetoric and actions in Portland, calling them irresponsible.
According to Wilson, there have been reports of excessive use of force by federal agents in Portland.
Wilson suggested that federal and local authorities could collaborate better, especially in areas like law enforcement standards.
The mayor expressed skepticism about whether discipline and accountability for reported incidents had been enforced.
New work rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) may make it harder for some low-income people in the U.S. to get benefits. These rules require individuals aged up to 65, without dependents, to work or participate in training for at least 20 hours a week to continue receiving benefits. Experts worry these changes will not lead to more jobs but will cause some people to lose benefits.
Key Facts
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act has changed the age limit for SNAP work requirements from 59 to 65.
People must prove they work or are in training for at least 20 hours a week to keep receiving SNAP benefits.
Without meeting work rules, individuals can only receive benefits for three months within three years.
Around 1.4 million people might lose SNAP benefits each month under the new rules, according to the Congressional Budget Office.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture manages SNAP and states must enforce the new rules starting November 1.
Some officials believe work requirements will reduce dependency on welfare programs.
Studies have shown that past work requirements did not significantly increase employment.
Experts say the policy does not consider the instability of low-wage jobs, which could cause benefit loss.
Disabled veterans in the U.S. will receive their November VA benefits on December 1, 2025, due to the last day of November falling on a weekend. Despite a government shutdown, the Department of Veterans Affairs confirmed that benefit payments will still go out as scheduled. Veterans receive compensation based on their disability rating and number of dependents.
Key Facts
Veterans' November benefits will be paid on December 1, 2025, as November 30 is a weekend.
Approximately 6.5 million veterans receive tax-free disability compensation from the VA.
Payments continue despite a government shutdown that began on October 1.
Disability payments vary based on a veteran’s disability rating and dependents.
Ratings are given in 10 percent increments, affecting payment amounts.
Conditions that qualify for VA disability include physical and mental health issues linked to military service.
The maximum base benefit is $4,544.23 per month for a veteran rated at 100 percent with a spouse, child, and two dependent parents.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly benefits for around 42 million low- and no-income people in the U.S. SNAP payments are distributed at different times in November, depending on the state. Changes to SNAP's work requirements under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will also take effect, affecting eligibility rules.
Key Facts
SNAP helps about 42 million low- and no-income Americans buy groceries.
Each state distributes SNAP benefits at different times each month.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act changes some SNAP work requirements.
The age for SNAP work requirement exemptions increased from 59 to 65.
Exemptions for parents or guardians now only apply to those with children under 14.
Exemptions for homelessness and veterans have been removed.
Some groups, like pregnant women and those unable to work due to conditions, remain exempt from certain requirements.
Joe Rogan, during his podcast, expressed disagreement with President Donald Trump's statements about hating his opponents made at Charlie Kirk's memorial. Rogan, who has both supported and criticized Trump, called for nonviolence and expressed disapproval of hateful rhetoric.
Key Facts
Joe Rogan disagreed with President Donald Trump's remarks about his opponents at a memorial service.
Rogan described President Trump as "a nut" on his podcast.
Rogan's podcast has a wide reach, with millions of listeners and over 20 million YouTube subscribers.
Rogan has criticized Trump before, especially regarding policies on immigration enforcement.
He called for the promotion of nonviolence, referencing the approach of Martin Luther King Jr.
Charlie Kirk was killed in a shooting at Utah Valley University, and his memorial took place in Arizona.
At the memorial, Erika Kirk, Kirk’s widow, emphasized love as a response to hate.
President Donald Trump's administration announced plans to furlough around 1,400 workers at the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) because of the ongoing U.S. government shutdown. Almost 400 agency staff will stay on the job to manage the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile. The shutdown is causing delays in the modernization of nuclear weapons.
Key Facts
About 1,400 NNSA workers will be furloughed starting next week.
Nearly 400 workers will remain at the NNSA to oversee the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile.
The furloughs result from the government shutdown, which has lasted for 17 days.
Senate Democrats recently blocked a Republican bill to extend federal funding, contributing to the shutdown.
Federal employees marked as "essential" continue to work without pay until the shutdown ends.
Roughly 750,000 federal employees have been furloughed, along with many federal contractors.
The NNSA is essential for maintaining and testing nuclear weapons and securing nuclear materials globally.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated that the shutdown might slow nuclear weapons program modernization.
President Trump is using a historical example to justify moving money to pay troops without Congress's approval during the government shutdown. His administration sent a memo to Congress citing past presidents who moved funds without legislative approval. This move aims to reduce pressure on Trump to negotiate with Democrats as the shutdown continues.
Key Facts
President Trump's budget office sent a memo to Congress about moving money to pay troops during the shutdown.
The memo cites historical examples from presidents like George Washington and John F. Kennedy.
The government shutdown started on October 1, primarily due to disagreements over funding issues.
Democrats want President Trump to extend health care subsidies permanently.
The memo argues that not paying troops is an emergency affecting military readiness.
The administration plans to move money from a fund usually meant for research and civilian salaries.
During the shutdown, some federal workers face layoffs, and others might not receive backpay.
The White House's actions drew criticism for breaking spending laws, according to a former OMB official.
President Donald Trump has decided to commute the prison sentence of former Republican Representative George Santos, who was convicted of fraud and identity theft. Trump cited concerns about Santos's prison conditions and noted his support for the Republican Party as reasons for the decision. George Santos was involved in legal issues after it was revealed he deceived donors and fabricated details about his life.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump announced the commutation of George Santos's sentence.
George Santos was in prison for fraud and identity theft.
Trump noted concerns about Santos's prison conditions like solitary confinement.
Santos was elected in 2022, flipping a Congressional district in New York from Democratic to Republican.
Investigations found that Santos violated federal law by deceiving donors.
The House of Representatives expelled Santos after these findings.
Santos's defense claimed his punishment was politically motivated.
The article discusses a decrease in fentanyl-related overdose deaths in the United States, focusing on harm reduction strategies and treatment programs. North Carolina's initiatives, like the LEAD program, have contributed to a 35% reduction in overdose fatalities. Kayla, a former fentanyl user, has benefited from these programs, achieving sobriety and career success.
Key Facts
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, 50 times stronger than heroin, which has caused many overdose deaths in the U.S.
In 2023, there were over 110,000 drug-related deaths in the United States, but this number dropped by around 25% in 2024.
Harm reduction strategies focus on supporting drug users' health and wellbeing instead of solely punishing them.
North Carolina has seen a 35% reduction in overdose deaths, partly due to programs like LEAD, which help divert people from crime and assist in recovery.
LEAD involves the police and local organizations working together to support individuals struggling with addiction.
Kayla, a North Carolina resident, has successfully recovered from fentanyl addiction with the help of methadone treatment and is now a certified nurse assistant.
Medications like methadone and buprenorphine are used to manage opioid addiction by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Over 30,000 people in North Carolina enrolled in treatment programs in 2024, which has been a significant factor in reducing overdose fatalities.
The Department of Defense (DOD) launched a "Department of War" account on the social media platform Bluesky. This account quickly received a large amount of negative feedback from users who criticized the name change and brought up various controversies.
Key Facts
The DOD started a "Department of War" account on the Bluesky app at 6:16 p.m. ET.
The account's first post tagged Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, crediting President Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
Users reacted critically, frequently asking about the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files.
Most comments were negative, questioning the name "Department of War" and criticizing past actions of President Trump and the DOD.
The account had about 800 followers, and its single post gathered 306 comments, 320 likes, and 123 reposts by 10:45 p.m. ET.
Users raised issues about the need for congressional approval for any official name change.
The DOD has a significant presence on other platforms, such as X (formerly Twitter), but not on Threads.
The term “Department of War” was part of a rebranding effort led by Hegseth under President Trump’s directive to focus on a "warrior ethos."
President Trump announced that he signed a commutation to release former Representative George Santos from prison. Santos was sentenced earlier this year to over seven years for wire fraud and identity theft. Trump released Santos by comparing his case to Senator Richard Blumenthal's claims about military service.
Key Facts
President Trump signed a commutation to release George Santos from prison.
Santos was serving a sentence of more than seven years for wire fraud and identity theft.
Trump compared Santos's actions to those of Senator Richard Blumenthal, claiming Blumenthal lied about military service.
Trump highlighted that Santos consistently voted Republican.
A commutation reduces a prisoner's sentence, allowing them to be released.
Trump has a history of pardons during his presidency, including pardoning 1,500 individuals related to January 6 events.
President Donald Trump has commuted the prison sentence of George Santos, a former Republican Congressman, who was serving seven years for fraud and identity theft, and has ordered his release. Santos was expelled from Congress after being charged with multiple offenses, including stealing identities and misusing campaign funds.
Key Facts
President Trump ordered George Santos' release from prison.
Santos was a former Republican Congressman.
He was sentenced to seven years for fraud and identity theft.
Santos admitted to stealing the identities of 11 people.
He was expelled from Congress in 2023 after an ethics report.
Trump criticized Senator Richard Blumenthal in his social media post while explaining his decision.
Blumenthal was accused of lying about his military service but has been reelected by voters.
