It’s Friday! Happy Halloween, everyone! Presidential historian shared a spooky photo of JFK’s kids in their Halloween costumes. They look quite eerie.
In today’s update:
• President Trump pushes for government shutdown.
• Prime Minister Johnson expresses discomfort with Trump’s ‘nuclear option.’
• Republicans anxious about the lengthy recess.
• Food stamp freeze starts Saturday.
• The possibility of halting the suspension of food stamps is being examined.
• New Dr. Seuss books have been uncovered.
Government Shutdown
Is Trump set to intervene?
We’re now on the 31st day of the government shutdown, and Trump has largely stayed out of it, busy with travels in Asia and demanding action against his political rivals. All the while, Congress remains at a standstill, and many are left wondering when the president will step in.
That could be happening soon. On Thursday, Trump urged Senate Republicans to activate the ‘nuclear option,’ a move that could allow the government to be reopened with just a simple majority of 51 votes, bypassing the usual 60-vote requirement.
Trump’s statement: “It’s time to play the ‘trump card’ and eliminate the filibuster. Let’s do it now!” he posted on Truth Social.
He has been vocal about Democrats blocking short-term funding measures and has argued that the filibuster should go since Republicans are now in power.
Is it feasible for Republicans to dismantle the filibuster? With a 53-seat majority, it’s uncertain how many Republicans might actually support this change.
While ending the filibuster could significantly alter legislative dynamics, it’s a route that many members of both parties fear to take. Some lawmakers, however, are open to proposals to help reopen the government.
Internal rifts in Trump’s party: Senate Republican leader John Thune has voiced his opposition to the filibuster being lifted, and Speaker Mike Johnson has also cautioned about the potential negative consequences of such a move. Johnson noted he hasn’t discussed this matter with Trump yet.
Concerns among Republicans about an extended break:
Chairman Johnson insists that the House remains in session until the shutdown is resolved, reasoning that the onus is now on Senate Democrats to act, given that House Republicans have already passed funding measures.
This prolonged break has added to tensions in the House. It’s been over a month since the last vote, marking the longest recess since the 2024 election cycle.
Indicators of rising frustration: Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene has been critical of the GOP’s shutdown strategy, and fellow member Dan Crenshaw has raised questions, highlighting discontent among lawmakers.
A House Republican suggested that when they return, they should expect a packed schedule, emphasizing it won’t be business as usual. It’s likely they will also swear in the next member, Adelita Grijalva, amid Democratic accusations that her swearing-in is being delayed.
What about food stamps?
With the Senate out of session and the House not in attendance, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are set to expire on Saturday without last-minute intervention.
There’s still a chance to secure funding: A federal judge may soon decide whether to continue funding the food stamp program.
The dilemma surrounding food aid has sparked discord among Senate Republicans, traditionally unified but now pressured by the impending freeze on benefits affecting millions, including many in Republican-led states.
Senator Josh Hawley is pushing legislation to maintain SNAP funding, and he has garnered support from 14 Republican colleagues.
Why the hesitation from some Republicans? They attribute the stalled SNAP to Democrats, preferring to maintain pressure on them to end the shutdown.
How to help: Donations to local food banks are a practical way to support SNAP recipients in need. Even though donating food is good, many food banks have resources to provide meals at low costs.
States experiencing emergencies due to SNAP issues: A list has been released by Axios detailing which states have declared emergencies.
Senators caught up in shutdown delays: Some senators faced travel disruptions due to air traffic controller shortages, with reports of significant delays.
Atmosphere in D.C.: A photo of Senator Michael Bennett on the phone captures the intensity and challenges facing lawmakers.
Trick-or-treating at the White House:
President Trump and First Lady Melania welcomed trick-or-treaters on Thursday. It’s always an entertaining affair.
Some kids dressed as imaginative characters, and Trump was seen interacting with them, echoing past Halloweens.
Discussion on authoritarianism:
The New York Times Editorial Board released a project exploring how Trump’s administration has shifted toward authoritarianism over recent months. They argue while the U.S. isn’t a dictatorship yet, there are worrying trends that signal a dangerous trajectory.
Excerpt: The editorial cautions that significant changes can be hard to reverse once they take hold.
Similarly, The Atlantic examined how Trump’s approach may be creating an authoritarian environment, citing instances where he has indicated a willingness to sidestep legal rights in the name of security.
Quick updates:
– ABC and ESPN have been dropped from YouTubeTV due to a dispute.
– Ticket sales at the Kennedy Center have sharply declined since Trump took office.
– NASA has conducted tests on supersonic jets aimed at reducing travel times.
Lastly, today marks National Caramel Apple Day—a fun little celebration to enjoy!
Some new Dr. Seuss books have also come to light, with a manuscript set to be released in June. Seems like a lot happening this Halloween!
