It’s Monday.

I did it. We saved daylight.

In today’s issue:

• SNAP benefits to be partially paid in November
• President Trump’s much talked about “60 Minutes” interview
• President demands CBS over settlement issue
• Kash Patel’s jet controversy
• Clooney says Harris bid was a mistake
• Vance dressed up as a viral meme

Trump Administration to Start Partial SNAP Payments in November:

The Trump administration has announced it will provide partial benefits to those eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The reason for this announcement is as follows. Recently, two federal judges directed the administration to use emergency funds to pay food stamp benefits to millions of Americans in November. They set a deadline for compliance that has now passed, prompting the government to announce these partial payments.

Why didn’t the Trump administration do this sooner? The emergency fund was described as being for cases like natural disasters. It seemingly isn’t intended for use during an ongoing government shutdown.

Why only partial benefits? The administration claimed it “doesn’t” have access to more funds, suggesting that full benefits might not be available this month.

Please note: Following the judges’ ruling, the administration indicated it is exploring options to fund SNAP benefits.

🗨️Follow today’s live blog

➤ 8 Democratic Senators to Watch for Potential Solutions:

At least eight Senate Democrats are looking for a way to end the 34-day government shutdown.

8 Democrats likely to support reopening the government: Senators Jean Shaheen (NH), Jon Ossoff (GA), Gary Peters (MI), Mark Kelly (AZ), Maggie Hassan (NH), Peter Welch (VT), Tammy Baldwin (WI), and Elissa Slotkin (MI).

Related article highlights the ongoing negotiations.

➤ What is President Trump doing about the shutdown?

In an interview with CBS, Trump was asked what he, as president, is planning to do to end the government shutdown. He did not present new ideas but instead reiterated his criticism of the Democrats.

Polls indicate that Republicans are generally seen as more responsible for the shutdown. Recent data shows 52% of Americans blame Republicans, while 42% place the blame on Democrats.

➤ Side note — Tom Massey announces marriage:

Rep. Thomas Massey (R-KY) shared that he recently married a former congressional staffer.

Fun fact about their wedding: They served wedding cake with raw milk and margaritas. Some notable attendees included Senators Rand Paul and other Representatives.

President Trump’s “60 Minutes” Highlights:

President Trump was recently interviewed by CBS’s Norah O’Donnell, marking his first appearance on “60 Minutes” since settling a dispute with the network.

During the interview, Trump talked about the settlement and claimed the network had manipulated his previous interview with Kamala Harris. CBS has denied this allegation.

He stated, “60 Minutes paid me a lot of money,” and expressed admiration for CBS’s new editor, Bari Weiss.

Other highlights:

• China, Russia, and nuclear weapons: Trump suggested these countries might be conducting nuclear tests.

• Political endorsements: He said he would prefer to vote for Cuomo over Mamdani, which seems curious given his usual stance.

• Defending ICE raids: Trump claimed that ICE operations are hindered by judges, particularly those appointed by Biden and Obama.

• Discussing political prosecutions: Trump maintained that he considers himself mild-mannered regarding political indictments against him.

Kash Patel’s Jet Controversy:

Kash Patel, the FBI Director, is facing criticism over allegations that he used a government jet to visit his girlfriend who was performing in Pennsylvania.

Patel responded, branding the accusations as “fake news” and called the criticisms disgraceful.

Critics, including former FBI agents, pointed out contradictions in Patel’s claims about the use of government resources.

What’s Happening in Venezuela?

The situation in Venezuela seems to be escalating, with reports indicating the Trump administration is looking at military options against the country.

Meanwhile, the U.S. has launched attacks on ships in the Caribbean, many of which originate from Venezuela, claimed to be involved in drug smuggling despite a lack of solid evidence.

For a deeper understanding, check out Stanage’s write-up on the rising tensions with Venezuela.

➤ Quick Hits:

– George Clooney remarked it was a “mistake” for Kamala Harris to pursue a presidential bid.

– Amazon and OpenAI have signed a massive cloud computing agreement valued at $38 billion.

– Kimberly Clark is buying the maker of Tylenol for $40 billion.

– Trump has been targeting comedians like Seth Meyers after being mocked.

Read more updates:

— President Trump is facing scrutiny over an MRI scan that has raised concerns about his health.

— Can Democrats challenge Trump’s victory among Latino voters? There are insights from New Jersey.

— President Trump’s dealings with chipmakers have highlighted his influence in the tech industry.

Come Tuesday: It’s Election Day, a significant moment ahead.

🥪 Celebrate: Today is National Sandwich Day.

👩‍🦱 Interesting Tidbit: Vice President Vance donned a wig to mimic a viral meme for Halloween.

🐍 Costume Highlights: Heidi Klum spent prolonged hours transforming into Medusa complete with a snake.

🐦 Decoration Winner: A stunning bird exhibit in Manhattan won high praise this Halloween.

And finally…

As a cheerful note, here’s a fun horse video to brighten your day.