12:30 Report is the Hill’s daytime newsletter. Subscribe here.
It’s Wednesday. The government shutdown has officially reached its third week. *Theme song humming “Jeopardy!”*
In today’s issue:
• A troubling report unveils racist messages among young Republicans.
• Supreme Court hears a significant voting rights case.
• A journalist has presented credentials to the Department of Defense.
• The ceasefire in Gaza appears increasingly precarious.
• Concerns grow over Washington’s rat infestation.
🗨️ Washington Story
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Several Republican lawmakers have condemned the hateful and violent comments surfaced through group chats of young Republican leaders, as detailed in a recent report. The Politico piece highlighted thousands of private messages, leading to significant outrage and even the shutdown of a state Republican group.
What’s in a text message?: Some messages referred to black individuals using racist slurs and discussed heinous acts against political opponents. In one alarming instance, an individual expressed admiration for Hitler, prompting a reaction of approval.
Which states were implicated?: Groups from New York, Kansas, Arizona, and Vermont were mentioned in the report.
The Young Republicans National Federation has demanded immediate resignations from those involved. Notable Republicans, including representatives Elise Stefanik and Mike Lawler, have publicly denounced the chats.
“We are shocked and appalled by the vile language reported today. Such behavior does not represent Republican values,” stated the Young Republicans National Federation.
Vice President Vance dismissed the outcry as “pearl-clutching” and pointed to comments made by a Democratic attorney general candidate that he deemed extreme.
⛔ Government shutdown
Today feels like Groundhog Day—but with a twist.
As the government shutdown enters its 15th day, uncertainty persists. The Senate is in session, although it’s adjourned for the week and is planning yet another vote on a Republican bill aimed at reopening the government, which is expected to fail again.
Ominously familiar, the constant voting has yielded similar outcomes—falling short of the necessary votes each time. While the Senate votes have been limited, reports indicate Republicans are gearing up for a prolonged shutdown, with the White House reallocating funds to secure military payments.
For context, the longest government shutdown on record lasted 35 days and ended in early 2019, a mark that could very well be surpassed this time.
➤ Latest developments:
Senate Majority Leader John Thune has caught Democrats off guard by scheduling a vote on a significant defense spending bill amidst the shutdown, which adds another layer of complexity to the discussions.
➤ On the horizon:
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has agreed to a discussion with Chair Mike Johnson on C-SPAN.
➤ Implications of expiring subsidies:
The potential expiration of Obamacare subsidies has become a pivotal issue in the shutdown negotiations, greatly affecting young individuals and various racial groups, particularly non-Hispanic blacks and whites.
☮️ Middle East
Is the ceasefire holding?
A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has begun, but the situation remains volatile. Following a brokered peace deal, Hamas was tasked with returning the remains of deceased hostages. However, the Israeli military has reported complications.
Hamas has reportedly conducted retaliatory measures, leading to multiple casualties since the ceasefire was enacted.
Humanitarian efforts face hurdles: Numerous organizations are mobilizing to deliver essential supplies in Gaza, but logistical challenges are significant.
🪪 More news
Only One America News Network remains.
As of today, only one news outlet will be approved by the Department of Defense under new restrictions impacting journalistic operations.
Most major media outlets have balked at the new rules, seeing them as infringements on First Amendment rights. One America News Network is the only organization that has accepted these terms.
What’s happening with the Voting Rights Act?
The Supreme Court is currently reviewing a crucial challenge to the Voting Rights Act. This case from Louisiana centers around a newly drawn congressional map intended to create a second majority-black district.
What’s at stake? The outcome could significantly impact how states draw their voting districts and uphold protections against racial discrimination.
👂 Listen to live arguments:
The Senate is expected to resume discussions today while major political figures are in attendance at various events.
Internet topics
🧀🍗 Celebrate: It’s National Cheese Curd Day and National Shawarma Day.
🐀 New York might not be the worst: Recent data suggests a more severe rat issue in Washington State compared to New York City.
🐼 Zoo closures affect Halloween events: Due to the government shutdown, the National Zoo has canceled its annual “Boo at the Zoo.”
And finally…
I came across a video that brightened my day. You should watch this dog that seems very accustomed to taking medicine.
