It’s Monday. Anyone interested in sharing pictures of their pets in Halloween outfits? I always look forward to these things! Feel free to tag me or send me an email.
In today’s issue:
• President Trump recent health updates include an MRI and cognitive tests.
• He expresses a desire to “enjoy” a third term.
• Food assistance programs are facing shortages.
• Major unions are advocating against ongoing closures.
• Insights on the East Wing demolition project.
📍 In Asia
Next stop — Japan:
President Trump arrived in Japan this morning during his Asian trip. Before going to bed, he had a brief meeting with His Majesty the Emperor of Japan.
One highlight was Trump’s health news: He informed the media that earlier this year, he underwent an MRI and cognitive function assessments at Walter Reed. He noted the MRI results were “perfect” and praised them as “some of the best reports I’ve ever seen.”
Additionally, he hasn’t ruled out another presidential run: Trump mentioned his poll ratings and expressed excitement at the idea of seeking a third term. He specifically highlighted vice president Vance and Secretary of State Rubio as a formidable ticket, calling them “unstoppable.” Despite the 22nd Amendment’s restrictions, Trump has repeatedly hinted at a potential candidacy.
What’s he planning during his Japan visit? He is set to meet with Japan’s first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, who aims to strengthen ties in the wake of the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022.
His time in Malaysia was also notable: There, he signed trade agreements with Malaysia, Cambodia, and Thailand, along with a peace agreement between Cambodia and Thailand.
🗨️ Follow today’s live updates
➤ Adding complexity to his trip:
China asserted that a bomber flew near Taiwan just days before Trump’s scheduled meeting with President Xi Jinping.
Also, two U.S. Navy aircraft from the USS Nimitz crashed in the South China Sea on Sunday, but thankfully, all personnel involved are safe.
⛔ Government Shutdown
Days since the government shutdown started — 27:
Congress is nearing a record for the longest shutdown in history.
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) has opted to prorogue the House during this shutdown, asserting that while House Republicans have accomplished their tasks with a funding bill, it now falls to the Senate.
While he may have a point, some analysis suggests Johnson’s tactics might be alienating both Congress and his own standing. The approach has resulted in a peculiar dynamic where he appears to be rendering the House less significant.
Is a new Republican strategy in development? Johnson indicated that House Majority Leader Steve Scalise is working on a healthcare plan along with committee heads.
The ongoing shutdown continues to weigh heavily on Americans, with two primary concerns coming to light:
First, food assistance is dwindling: Over 40 million low-income individuals could see their food aid cut as the shutdown persists, especially with the USDA threatening to withhold emergency funding already allocated for this purpose.
Let’s break it down: Approximately $8 billion is needed to sustain SNAP benefits in November, but current cash reserves are only about $5-6 billion. The USDA recently decided it would not cover SNAP benefits, possibly as a negotiation tactic for Senate Democrats.
Second, flight delays are increasing: Due to a shortage of air traffic controllers, major airports are experiencing rising delays, creating added frustration for travelers.
➤ New pressures emerging:
The largest federal labor union is pushing for an end to the shutdown, calling for Congress to pass a straightforward funding bill, likely in response to Democratic hesitance to agree without health care provisions included.
📰 More updates:
Details on the East Wing demolition:
The unexpected demolition of a historic section of the White House has raised eyebrows, especially since President Trump had previously committed not to initiate it.
However, questions remain regarding the motivations behind constructing a banquet hall almost twice the main building’s size. Are there necessary permissions? Was everyone notified?
The Wall Street Journal has reported one angle of this story, shedding light on how Trump navigated through various bureaucratic hurdles for this project.
Interestingly, First Lady Melania Trump isn’t involved: Reports indicate she has privately voiced concerns about the demolition and has distanced herself from the initiative.
Moreover, Trump was informed that zoning laws were not applicable: He recently tweeted that project officials communicated to him, “There are zero zoning conditions. You’re the president.”
How about that? The White House, alongside the U.S. Capitol, is exempt from review under the National Historic Preservation Act.
Trump has been keenly involved in planning: He has conducted weekly meetings regarding the ballroom project in the Oval Office, deliberating over design elements, including material choices.
Did you know he has wanted to build this hall since 2010? Even before taking on his political role, Trump expressed interest in this idea.
➤ Quick Highlights:
— The campaign manager for Maine’s Democratic Senate candidate has stepped down after a week, citing her upcoming childbirth.
— Indiana’s Republican governor has called for a special session to redraw congressional maps.
— Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent empathized with farmers feeling the effects of Trump’s trade policies, mentioning he himself is a soybean farmer.
— MSNBC announced a rebranding to “MS Now,” starting November 15.
— John Dickerson is leaving CBS News, raising questions about the future of “CBS Evening News.”
— Argentina’s parliamentary elections brought favorable results for Trump.
➤ Additional stories:
Study links moldy food to severe health risks.
Exploring how political violence transformed Josh Shapiro.
In Iowa, Trump’s policies face scrutiny in this thriving state.
That’s it for now.
House is out, Senate is in, and President Trump is in Japan. (All times in EDT)
5:30pm Watch for two Senate confirmation votes. 📆
8:30pm Trump and the Prime Minister of Japan will meet. 💻
Tuesday 2:45am: Trump will speak with U.S. military officials in Yokosuka, Japan.
Tuesday 6:05am: He’ll attend a dinner with business leaders in Tokyo.
On a lighter note:
🍺 Today’s observation is National American Beer Day.
🦁 If you check out just one link: The finalists for this year’s Comedy Wildlife Awards were shared, and the photographs are fantastic. The loon’s beach arrival is my personal favorite.
💸 Contemplating a purchase? Consider this guidance: According to the Wall Street Journal, if the cost is less than 0.01 percent of what you own, you might not need to stress about it.
Finally, my aim is to leave you with a positive note as you head back to your day. 🎉
