Senator Dick Durbin suggests that the best way to end the ongoing government shutdown is through bipartisan negotiations. He warns that if Congress does not act, millions of Americans could face much higher health care costs. The shutdown continues as lawmakers disagree over extending subsidies for Affordable Care Act marketplaces.
Key Facts
The government shutdown has lasted nine days.
Senator Dick Durbin urges Republicans to negotiate to resolve the shutdown.
If Congress does not act, many people's health care premiums could double.
The Senate rejected competing bills to fund the government for the seventh time.
About 24 million Americans use Affordable Care Act marketplaces for health insurance.
Republicans and Democrats disagree on how and when to extend health care subsidies.
Senator Durbin mentioned an increase in health care premiums expected in Illinois on October 27.
The ongoing shutdown affects federal workers, military families, and small businesses.
Nearly half of the IRS staff have been furloughed due to a federal government shutdown. This affects upcoming tax deadlines and delays services for taxpayers. While some IRS operations continue, many employees are without pay until the shutdown ends.
Key Facts
The IRS has furloughed about 46.4% of its staff during a government shutdown.
The shutdown began because Congress did not agree on a federal funding deal.
Furloughed workers cannot work or get paid until the shutdown concludes.
Only 53.6% of IRS employees are still working during the shutdown.
The Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019 ensures employees get back pay after the shutdown.
Tax deadlines remain, with many Americans having already filed their 2024 taxes.
Tax processing continues, but assistance to taxpayers is limited due to staff furloughs.
Interest and penalties on unpaid taxes continue to add up during the shutdown.
In Utah, a group called Mormon Women for Ethical Government (MWEG) is involved in a lawsuit that led to a court order for redistricting the state's congressional seats. The new map, approved by the legislature, could improve Democrats' chances of winning a seat in the upcoming elections but still needs a judge's review. This redistricting effort in Utah is part of a larger national trend influenced by President Trump, who has encouraged Republican states to redraw their district maps.
Key Facts
Redistricting in Utah was prompted by a court order resulting from a lawsuit involving the group Mormon Women for Ethical Government.
The new district map could make it easier for Democrats to win a House seat in the predominantly Republican state.
President Trump has encouraged redistricting efforts in several Republican states to strengthen his party's position in Congress.
The group's involvement in redistricting began before Trump's recent push; they focus on a fair democratic process.
Republican lawmakers in Utah complied with the court's order but expressed dissatisfaction with the judicial intervention.
States typically redistrict every ten years after the census, but recent changes have been influenced by political strategy.
MWEG was formed in 2017 and claims around 9,000 members, mainly from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The U.S. Supreme Court is examining a case involving a Colorado law that limits how counselors can discuss gender identity with minors. The law bans counselors from helping minors resolve gender dysphoria in certain ways. This restriction is being challenged as a violation of free speech.
Key Facts
Colorado law restricts how counselors can speak with minors about gender dysphoria.
The law prevents counselors from helping minors become comfortable with their biological sex.
The case is being argued at the U.S. Supreme Court.
Alliance Defending Freedom is representing a Colorado counselor in the case.
Critics argue that the law limits free speech and prevents children from receiving the guidance they seek.
There is no evidence cited by Colorado that voluntary counseling causes harm.
The law allows minors to receive counseling on other subjects without parental consent.
The case highlights a larger debate about gender identity and counseling in the U.S.
California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill called the Street Vendor Protection Act. This law prevents sensitive information collected from street vendors from being accessed by federal immigration agencies. It aims to protect immigrant entrepreneurs and small-business owners in California.
Key Facts
Governor Gavin Newsom signed the Street Vendor Protection Act into law.
The law, known as SB 635, was authored by Democratic Senator María Elena Durazo.
It prevents the sharing of personal information from street vendors with federal immigration agencies.
The law is intended to protect immigrant entrepreneurs and small-business owners in California.
Over 60 organizations, including the California Federation of Labor, supported the bill.
The law will take effect on January 1, 2026.
The bill helps ensure that federal immigration enforcement does not use this data against vendors.
Advocates say it promotes privacy and reduces the risk of deportation for immigrant families.
California is the first U.S. state to pass a law to gradually remove certain ultra-processed foods from school meals over the next ten years. The law defines which foods are considered ultra-processed and sets deadlines for schools and vendors to stop offering these foods. This action aligns with wider efforts to improve diet and health in the U.S.
Key Facts
Governor Gavin Newsom signed a law to phase out certain ultra-processed foods from California school meals.
California is the first state to create a legal definition for ultra-processed foods.
The Department of Public Health will define these foods by June 1, 2028.
Schools must start phasing out the foods by July 1, 2029.
Vendors cannot offer the restricted foods to schools starting July 1, 2032.
Schools will be completely banned from offering these foods by July 1, 2035.
CDC data shows that over half of daily calories for Americans over age 1 come from ultra-processed foods.
Governor Newsom's office reported that 32.7% of youths aged 12-19 are prediabetic.
A new poll suggests that Republican candidate Elise Stefanik has a slight lead over Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul in New York's 2026 gubernatorial election. The poll reveals a potential shift in voter sentiment in a state that typically supports Democrats.
Key Facts
Elise Stefanik is a Republican candidate running for Governor of New York.
The poll shows Stefanik leading by one percentage point over Democrat Kathy Hochul.
Kathy Hochul is the current Governor seeking a second term.
The poll was funded by Stefanik's own fundraising group.
The election is set for November 3, 2026.
New York is generally considered a Democratic stronghold.
The poll results come 14 months before the election date.
A video has surfaced showing a man escaping from U.S. Border Patrol agents in Chicago, causing online attention. The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the event, stating that agents left due to interference from a crowd. The situation reflects ongoing tensions in Chicago tied to President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Key Facts
A video shows a man breaking free from Border Patrol agents in Chicago.
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the incident occurred on October 4.
Agents stopped their operation due to crowd interference.
The video was filmed outside Maxcare Auto Shield Repair in Chicago.
DHS stated agents left to help colleagues under attack elsewhere.
Chicago Police reportedly did not assist during the incident.
President Donald Trump's administration is focusing on removing undocumented migrants.
Trump criticized local officials for not protecting federal agents amid clashes.
An immigration raid took place at an apartment block in Chicago where armed agents and a helicopter conducted operations. The Department of Homeland Security arrested 37 individuals suspected of being illegal immigrants, including some alleged gang members.
Key Facts
The raid occurred at an apartment block in Chicago.
Residents reported seeing armed agents and a helicopter landing on the building’s roof.
One resident, born in the US, had his hands zip-tied by officers during the raid.
The Department of Homeland Security released footage of the raid.
37 individuals were arrested for suspected immigration violations.
Some of those arrested are believed to be gang members.
The incident was documented and reported by BBC Verify.
Mortgage rates in the U.S. are decreasing, with a significant drop occurring between July 2024 and July 2025. This decrease is leading to substantial savings for borrowers, particularly in high-cost states like Washington D.C., Massachusetts, and California. However, in North Dakota, mortgage rates have slightly increased, leading to higher payments.
Key Facts
Mortgage rates are decreasing, projected to end the year in the low 6 percent range.
Average rates dropped by 0.51 percentage points between July 2024 and July 2025, reaching 6.68 percent.
Borrowers save about $40,000 over the life of a 30-year mortgage, or $111 per month.
The biggest savings are in Washington D.C., Massachusetts, and California.
In these states, savings over 30 years exceed $76,000.
The smallest savings are in Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, with only around $24-$31 per month.
North Dakota saw an increase in average mortgage rates by 0.03 percentage points.
Lower mortgage rates could enable more households to afford homes, potentially increasing home sales in future years.
A retiree named Craig Clark from Sarasota, Florida, refurbishes old laptops and gives them to people who cannot afford new ones. He started this initiative eight years ago and has provided hundreds of laptops to individuals, mainly from low-income backgrounds. Clark operates alone, relying on donations of old laptops which he fixes and upgrades before distributing them for free.
Key Facts
Craig Clark is a 79-year-old former convenience store manager turned computer technician.
He started refurbishing and giving away laptops about eight years ago.
The laptops Clark refurbishes are donated to him; he fixes them completely free for the recipients.
Clark gives away about eight or nine laptops each month.
He has given out hundreds of laptops since he began, mainly to individuals working minimum-wage jobs.
Clark's operation takes place from his office where he works alone, surrounded by racks of donated computers.
One recipient used a laptop to discover and apply for college grants, which he successfully obtained.
Clark engages with potential recipients by observing them in second-hand stores and offering laptops to those in need.
A recent poll shows that 59% of Americans disapprove of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s actions as health secretary. The poll highlights a significant political divide, with Republicans generally trusting Kennedy while Democrats and Independents do not. The poll also indicates varying public trust levels in health information sources like the CDC and medical groups.
Key Facts
59% of Americans disapprove of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s performance as health secretary.
The poll shows Republicans trust Kennedy as much as their own doctors.
There is a deep partisan divide in health-related beliefs and trust.
President Trump made controversial statements about acetaminophen, which Republicans tended to believe and Democrats did not.
Trust in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has dropped, particularly among Democrats.
Democrats largely trust professional medical groups like the American Medical Association more than governmental health information.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was appointed as health secretary by President Trump.
President Trump has used the National Guard more in recent times to deal with crime and support ICE in certain U.S. cities, notably in areas led by Democrats. This involvement includes tasks like patrolling streets and assisting local law enforcement. Military experts express concern that this usage departs from the National Guard's traditional roles, such as helping during natural disasters.
Key Facts
President Trump has increased the usage of the National Guard in Democratic-led cities.
The Guard has been deployed in Washington, D.C., since August and engaged in community projects.
Tasks included clearing trash, painting fences, and packaging food.
The Trump administration deployed the Guard in states like Oregon and Illinois to protect ICE facilities.
Military experts say these activities are different from the Guard's usual duties, such as disaster response.
Concerns have been raised about how this could affect public trust and recruitment.
The National Guard's historical roots date back to the 1600s, where they were known as "minutemen."
President Donald Trump's approval rating among baby boomers has fallen in recent months. This drop is linked to concerns about economic stability and changes to Social Security under his administration. Boomers were key supporters in Trump's 2024 election victory.
Key Facts
President Trump’s approval rating among voters over 65 dropped from 47% in July to 43% in September.
The disapproval rating for Trump among this age group increased from 52% in July to 56% in September.
Baby boomers played a significant role in Trump's 2024 election win, with 51% of this group voting for him.
Concerns have risen among boomers about economic stability and access to healthcare and retirement security.
Recent policy changes include Social Security staff reductions and potential eligibility criteria adjustments.
41% of boomers reported their finances worsened from July to recent months.
Economic growth forecasts are lower for 2025, despite a previous rebound.
The government shutdown could potentially impact Social Security operations.
Changes to the federal food assistance program, SNAP, will start next month. The new rules lower the age limit for children whose parents can qualify for work exemptions from 18 to 14, which could affect families with teenagers. Experts warn that these changes might reduce access to food for families, impacting teenagers' health and development.
Key Facts
SNAP is a federal program that helps around 42 million Americans buy groceries.
New SNAP rules lower the age limit for work exemptions from 18 to 14.
Families with teenagers whose parents now need to meet work requirements might face reduced benefits.
The changes take effect on November 1.
In 2023, 13.4% of U.S. households were food insecure, with 8.9% of households with children facing this issue.
Research shows that food insecurity in teens can lead to health problems like asthma and depression.
Experts argue that stable nutrition is critical for teenagers' growth and development.
President Donald Trump will visit Walter Reed Medical Center for a routine checkup, despite having had his last checkup only six months ago. This visit has led to questions about his health and the transparency of his health information. The White House states the visit includes scheduled remarks with troops, and Trump’s physician previously declared him fit to serve.
Key Facts
President Trump will visit Walter Reed Medical Center for a routine checkup.
He previously had an annual checkup on April 11, six months ago.
Questions have been raised about Trump's health due to his age, 79, and recent health concerns.
Trump has been seen with bruising on his hand and swelling in his legs.
He has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, common in older adults.
The White House states bruising is due to frequent handshaking and aspirin use.
A recent poll showed concerns about Trump's age and transparency regarding his health.
Trump mentioned he might visit the Middle East soon after his Walter Reed visit.
Voters in three counties in Colorado will vote in November on whether to create a special tax district to help pay for childcare. This is being considered because childcare is becoming more expensive for families in the state.
Key Facts
Three counties in Colorado are considering setting up a special tax district.
The purpose of the tax district is to help fund childcare.
The decision will be made by voters in these counties in November.
Childcare costs are rising, making it harder for some families to afford.
The proposal aims to make childcare more affordable.
Inflation rates have decreased since the pandemic's peak, but many Americans still feel that prices are high. The report explores why people’s perceptions of prices do not match the inflation data.
Key Facts
Inflation has decreased since its highest point during the pandemic.
Despite this decrease, many Americans continue to feel that prices are high.
The report tries to understand why there is a gap between the official data and people's feelings about prices.
People often experience "sticker shock," which means surprise at how much prices have gone up.
The feeling of high prices can be due to various factors such as the cost of living and personal spending habits.
Local governments are working together to keep the Great Smoky Mountains National Park open during a government shutdown. They are using their own funds to ensure tourists can visit the park.
Key Facts
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains open despite a government shutdown.
Local governments are funding the park's operations during this time.
The park is important for local tourism, which motivates this decision.
This effort aims to keep tourism active in the area.
The shutdown affects federal services, but local communities are finding solutions.
The initiative highlights the park's economic value to nearby towns.
Illinois officials plan to go to court to stop the deployment of National Guard troops in Chicago. President Trump ordered the troops to protect federal property in the city.
Key Facts
Illinois is challenging the deployment of National Guard troops in Chicago.
The legal challenge will take place in court on Thursday.
President Trump requested the deployment to protect federal property.
State officials argue that the deployment is illegal.
Hundreds of National Guard troops are already in Chicago for this purpose.
