More than 400 artists and the ACLU signed an open letter criticizing the government's role in the suspension of the "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" show. They argue that the action against Kimmel, following FCC criticism, threatens free speech. The letter urges Americans to protect their right to free expression.
Key Facts
An open letter by the ACLU and over 400 artists criticizes the suspension of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" by Disney and ABC.
The signatories include well-known figures like Jennifer Aniston, Robert De Niro, and Tom Hanks.
The group claims that the suspension is an attack on free speech and unconstitutional.
The letter stresses that pressure from leaders to punish speech violates the principles of a free country.
It warns that free speech issues affect various groups, like teachers and students, not just Hollywood.
FCC Chair Brendan Carr criticized Kimmel after a monologue, suggesting possible regulatory consequences for his show.
The open letter calls for unity in defending the First Amendment rights.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will stop sending out benefit payments by mail starting September 30, 2025. All payments, including Social Security and other federal benefits, will be made electronically to reduce costs and prevent fraud. Beneficiaries must choose direct deposit or a prepaid card to continue receiving payments.
Key Facts
The SSA will no longer issue benefit payments by paper check starting September 30, 2025.
Beneficiaries need to switch to electronic payments using direct deposit or the Direct Express card.
An executive order signed by former President Trump requires all federal payments to be electronic by this date.
Over 521,000 payments were still made as checks as of July 2025, but these are a small fraction of total beneficiaries.
The switch aims to reduce costs, prevent fraud, and avoid delays associated with paper checks.
Exceptions to the rule exist for recipients without any electronic payment options available.
The SSA provides assistance to help beneficiaries through the transition process.
Complaints of mail theft have increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, making electronic payments more secure.
President Donald Trump is set to make an announcement about autism at the White House. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. had pledged to find the cause of autism by September, raising concerns because of his past support for theories linking vaccines to autism.
Key Facts
President Trump will speak about autism at the White House on Monday at 4 p.m. ET.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. previously promised to identify the cause of autism by September.
Kennedy has supported theories that vaccines are linked to autism, which are widely discredited by experts.
Trump mentioned at an event on Sunday that he believes an answer to autism has been found.
During a flight, Trump suggested that children might be receiving too many vaccines.
The announcement has raised concerns among experts due to the nature of the claims involved.
President Trump introduced a $1 million "Gold Card" visa program, which is causing concern about potential misuse by wealthy individuals. The program offers a fast track to U.S. residency for those investing at least $1 million. Some politicians argue this could favor the wealthy and might be illegal.
Key Facts
The "Gold Card" visa program allows foreign nationals to gain U.S. residency for a $1 million investment.
Senator Dick Durbin claims the program may welcome wealthy foreign individuals with controversial backgrounds.
The program will replace EB-1 and EB-2 visa categories, which are for individuals with exceptional abilities.
The Trump administration plans to issue about 80,000 Gold Cards.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick says the program is still in the "implementation phase."
A more expensive "Trump Platinum Card" could allow longer U.S. stays without tax obligations on non-U.S. income, pending Congress's approval.
A new $100,000 application fee has been introduced for H-1B visas, often used by tech companies.
President Trump expects the Gold Card program to raise over $100 billion, claiming it will help reduce taxes and national debt.
President Donald Trump introduced a "Gold Card" visa program that provides wealthy individuals with a fast path to live and work in the U.S. in exchange for large financial contributions to the U.S. government. This program is different from the traditional green card process, which is based on employment, family ties, or humanitarian grounds and does not require financial contributions.
Key Facts
The Gold Card program was established through a September executive order.
It offers expedited visas to individuals making significant financial contributions to the U.S. government.
Applicants must give $1 million to the U.S. Treasury, or $2 million if sponsored by a company, plus a $15,000 vetting fee.
The program is expected to issue 80,000 visas and aims to raise $100 billion.
The green card system, an existing path to U.S. residency, does not require a financial contribution.
The Gold Card will replace the EB-5 investor visa, which required proof of job creation or preservation in the U.S.
The Trump administration highlights the Gold Card as a reform and economic benefit, offering benefits like some tax flexibility for income outside the U.S.
A new $100,000 fee for H-1B visas was also announced.
A survey found that many U.S. workers, especially from Generation Z, consider quitting their jobs due to dissatisfaction and limited career progression. The survey by HireClix reported 54% of Gen Z workers plan to leave their jobs, a higher percentage than in previous years. Despite these intentions, actual quitting rates remain low in the challenging current job market.
Key Facts
38% of U.S. workers intend to quit their jobs, up from 32% last year.
54% of Gen Z employees plan to leave their current jobs.
This trend highlights the need for companies to address concerns like growth opportunities, pay equity, and organizational culture.
Despite dissatisfaction, quitting rates are low, indicating tight job retention.
The survey involved over 1,000 working Americans and was conducted in June.
Common reasons for wanting to quit include a lack of job enjoyment and insufficient raises.
Different age groups prioritize various work-related factors, such as pay, growth opportunities, and work-life balance.
Economic challenges, such as slow job growth and layoffs, contribute to employees staying in their current jobs.
New Jersey's gubernatorial race shows Republican Jack Ciattarelli with a slight lead over Democratic Representative Mikie Sherrill in a recent internal poll. This election, along with Virginia's, is considered important for understanding voter sentiment before the U.S. midterm elections. New Jersey has traditionally leaned Democratic, but Republicans have gained support recently.
Key Facts
Jack Ciattarelli leads by one point over Mikie Sherrill in a new internal poll for New Jersey governor.
The poll surveyed 600 likely voters between September 16 and 18, with a margin of error of ±4 percentage points.
Internal polls like this one are sometimes seen as less reliable than independent polls.
A National Research poll from early September showed Sherrill ahead by two points.
Other polls, including ones by Quinnipiac and Rutgers University, showed Sherrill with a larger lead.
New Jersey usually votes Democratic but has shown Republican support increases in recent years.
Jack Ciattarelli is a former New Jersey General Assembly member who nearly won the governor's race in 2021.
Mikie Sherrill represents a Congressional district in New Jersey and has focused on moderate policies.
A foster dog named Aggie was set to be adopted, but the adopter canceled after learning she was deaf. Aggie is 10 years old and living with volunteer Melissa Dallier, who is helping her adjust. Despite the setback, Aggie is improving in Dallier's care.
Key Facts
Aggie is a 10-year-old foster dog who is deaf and has poor sight.
Melissa Dallier, a volunteer, fosters Aggie and shared their story online.
An adopter initially showed interest in Aggie but did not follow through.
The adopter changed their mind after learning about Aggie’s deafness.
Aggie was found wandering alone and picked up by animal control.
Dallier noticed improvements in Aggie's health and behavior since fostering her.
Aggie has a microchip but was never claimed by her previous owner.
Former President Trump is expected to announce a potential link between the pain reliever Tylenol and autism. However, major medical groups and experts say there is no confirmed evidence linking the drug to autism. They emphasize that Tylenol, known as paracetamol outside North America, is considered safe for pregnant women.
Key Facts
Tylenol, also known as paracetamol, is a common pain-relief medicine.
Trump plans to announce a link between Tylenol use in pregnant women and autism.
Major medical groups, including the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, say Tylenol is safe for pregnant women.
Some studies have looked at a link between Tylenol and autism, but results are inconsistent and do not confirm a causal link.
Tylenol's maker, Kenvue, maintains that independent studies show acetaminophen does not cause autism.
Autism is considered to be caused by a complex mix of genetic and environmental factors.
Autism diagnosis rates have increased partly due to greater awareness and an expanded definition.
The US Department of Health and Human Services has pledged more research into autism causes.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will stop using paper checks for payments and switch to electronic payment methods starting September 30. This change affects around 500,000 beneficiaries who still receive paper checks. The shift aims to make payments faster and lower costs for the government.
Key Facts
The SSA will end paper checks and require electronic payments from September 30.
About 70 million people receive Social Security payments, including retirees and people with disabilities.
Around 0.8% of beneficiaries, or over 500,000 people, still use paper checks.
The change is expected to cut government costs by over $2 million annually.
Electronic payments will be made via bank deposits or prepaid debit cards.
The initiative is a part of modernization efforts started under President Trump.
Beneficiaries can switch to electronic payments through "my Social Security" accounts or Direct Express services.
A limited waiver will allow some people to continue receiving paper checks if they cannot switch.
The White House has named St. Joseph County in Indiana and Rogers County in Oklahoma as new High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas. This designation allows for extra resources to fight drug trafficking in these areas.
Key Facts
Two new counties, St. Joseph in Indiana and Rogers in Oklahoma, are now High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas.
This designation helps law enforcement by providing more resources to fight drug trafficking.
St. Joseph County includes the city of South Bend, Indiana.
Rogers County is located northeast of Tulsa, Oklahoma.
The aim is to disrupt drug and cash movement in U.S. cities through tougher law enforcement.
In 2024, the HIDTA program helped seize about $18 billion in drugs and cash.
The announcement was made in a White House press release.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr suggested action against Jimmy Kimmel after Kimmel's controversial statements on his TV show. Carr implied that the FCC could take further steps against broadcasters if they don't regulate their content in line with public interest rules. Legal experts argue that Carr's comments might exceed the FCC's authority and infringe on free speech rights.
Key Facts
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr commented on actions against Jimmy Kimmel's show after controversial remarks.
Kimmel spoke about the suspect in the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Carr suggested broadcasters have a public interest duty due to their FCC licenses.
Carr's comments were interpreted as directed at ABC and its affiliate stations.
ABC and some affiliates stopped airing Kimmel’s show soon after Carr's comments.
Carr emphasized the FCC's role in enforcing public interest obligations in broadcasting.
Legal and public interest experts claim Carr's comments might constitute government overreach into free speech.
The discussion involves the FCC's regulatory power and First Amendment protections.
Angel, a mother from Salt Lake City, effectively co-parents her 5-year-old daughter with her ex-partner. Both Angel and her ex have found new partners, and together they share 50/50 custody of their daughter. They work to maintain a friendly relationship, making sure their daughter sees them getting along well.
Key Facts
Angel, from Salt Lake City, co-parents her 5-year-old daughter with her ex-partner.
The couple separated when their daughter was a few months old.
Their daughter has four parents involved, as Angel and her ex both have new partners.
Angel and her ex strive to maintain a friendly demeanor around their daughter.
They have shared 50/50 custody and adjust their schedules to spend time with her.
Angel shares her co-parenting experiences on TikTok, with one video becoming popular.
In the video, her daughter playfully connected Angel's current husband and her ex-partner.
Angel emphasizes not fighting or speaking poorly about each other in front of their daughter.
Ryan Routh is representing himself in a Florida court after being charged with attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump. Prosecutors ended their case after bringing forward 38 witnesses, while Routh plans to call just three witnesses in his defense.
Key Facts
Ryan Routh is on trial for allegedly trying to assassinate former President Trump at a Florida golf course.
Routh sent messages to his family expressing love just before being identified by a Secret Service agent.
Prosecutors questioned 38 witnesses over seven days to support their case.
Routh plans to call a firearms expert and two character witnesses as part of his defense.
Routh has pleaded not guilty to several charges, including attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate.
The judge agreed to let Routh represent himself in court after confirming his competence to do so.
Closing arguments are expected to take place soon, with jurors beginning deliberations after that.
A Secret Service agent testified that Routh aimed a rifle but fled without firing after being challenged.
New Mexico has become the first state in the U.S. to offer free child care to all families, removing income restrictions that were previously in place. The initiative, starting on November 1, is funded by oil and gas revenues and dedicated state funds set up in recent years. The program aims to save families money and provide more opportunities for children and parents.
Key Facts
Starting November 1, New Mexico will offer free child care without income restrictions or co-payments.
The program is expected to save families around $12,000 per child each year.
Initially, the program was limited to families earning up to 400% of the federal poverty line.
Funding comes from the Early Childhood Education and Care Fund, which grew rapidly from oil and gas revenues.
The annual cost of the program is estimated at $120 million.
The state's Land Grant Permanent Fund will also contribute to early childhood programs starting in fiscal year 2026.
There is political debate, with Democrats supporting the initiative as a community investment and Republicans criticizing it for increasing government reliance.
The state's initiative is the first of its kind in the country, aiming to improve financial security for families.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a health nonprofit, released a map showing that around 100 million Americans have drinking water with three harmful chemicals: chromium-6, arsenic, and nitrate. These chemicals pose health risks, such as cancer and liver damage. The EWG is urging updated water treatment systems to handle multiple contaminants at the same time.
Key Facts
Nearly 100 million Americans have drinking water with three toxic chemicals: chromium-6, arsenic, and nitrate.
The EWG map shows areas with water supplies contaminated by these chemicals above health limits.
California, Arizona, and Texas are noted as the most affected states with high levels of all three contaminants.
Chromium-6 alone affects water for more than 260 million people, arsenic for 134 million, and nitrate for 263 million.
The EWG suggests treatments like ion exchange or reverse osmosis can remove these chemicals from water.
Current U.S. regulations focus on single contaminants, missing those that occur together.
The EWG says treating multiple contaminants at once could prevent 50,000 cancer cases over a lifetime.
The group is calling for updated water treatment systems to manage multiple contaminants efficiently.
A woman's TikTok video about her grandmother's accepting reaction to her marriage news has gone viral. Liv, a 27-year-old, was nervous to tell her grandmother she was marrying another woman but was surprised by the warm response. The grandmother's support strengthened their bond and brought joy to Liv's upcoming wedding, which will be held on the grandmother's birthday.
Key Facts
A TikTok video showing a grandmother's supportive reaction to her granddaughter's same-sex marriage news went viral with over 797,000 views.
Liv, the woman in the video, feared telling her grandmother because of traditional beliefs associated with Christianity and southern upbringing.
Initially, Liv had a preconceived notion that her grandmother might not accept her same-sex relationship due to generational and cultural differences.
Liv's grandmother responded positively, saying it was an honor to share the granddaughter's wedding day, which is also her birthday.
The grandmother reassured Liv earlier by expressing that happiness is what matters most in a relationship.
Liv's grandmother has embraced her granddaughter's LGBTQ friends, calling herself a "Nana" to many who may not have accepting families.
This experience has strengthened the bond between Liv and her grandmother, who will celebrate her birthday at Liv's wedding.
Changes at the Social Security Administration during the Trump administration have reportedly made it harder for many disabled and poor Americans to get the help they need. These changes include updates to phone systems and policy shifts that some say have led to more difficulties for those requiring in-person services. However, the administration highlights improvements such as reduced waiting times for claims.
Key Facts
A report says that changes by the Trump administration have negatively affected disabled and poor Americans.
Researchers from several universities conducted the report based on interviews with benefits specialists and attorneys.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) manages retirement and disability benefits and provides SSI for the poor and disabled.
Some improvements include a faster processing time for disability claims and overall fewer pending claims.
People needing in-person help at SSA offices face shorter appointment times.
Changes to the phone system make it difficult for lawyers to connect with the right offices.
SSI recipients are among the most vulnerable, with strict financial limits and complex reporting requirements.
The SSA reports high customer satisfaction and increased online service use, with claims of better efficiency in recent times.
A mom named Alanna Matson shared a funny moment when she discovered her daughter brought their pet cat to dance class instead of a toy doll. Alanna lives in New York with her twin daughters Bria and Cora, and their cat, Tito, who the children adore.
Key Facts
Alanna Matson lives in Skaneateles, New York, with her twin daughters and their pet cat, Tito.
The daughters, Bria and Cora, often bring dolls wrapped in blankets to play with during car rides.
During a trip to ballet class, Alanna realized Cora had brought their cat Tito wrapped in a blanket instead of a doll.
Cora explained that she brought Tito because he is her "best friend."
Matson shared this funny incident on her TikTok account, where it got nearly 1 million views.
Viewers on TikTok commented on the size of Tito and shared similar pet stories.
A 4.3 magnitude earthquake occurred near Berkeley, California, early Monday morning. The quake was felt by over 22,000 people in the San Francisco Bay Area, causing some transit delays as safety checks were conducted.
Key Facts
A 4.3 magnitude earthquake shook the San Francisco Bay Area.
The earthquake's epicenter was just east-southeast of Berkeley.
It took place shortly before 3 a.m. local time.
Over 22,000 people reported feeling the quake.
Bay Area Rapid Transit reduced train speeds for safety checks, causing delays up to 20 minutes.
The San Francisco Mayor stated that the city's responders were assessing any effects of the quake.
People as far as Salinas, 100 miles away, felt the tremor.
There were no immediate reports of injuries or major damage.
