It’s Monday. Another week begins with a federal government still in shutdown. 😅
In today’s issue:
- Large-scale website/app suspension
- Australian leader visits White House
- FBI investigating stand near Air Force One area.
- President Trump claims “there is no king”
- Aerial footage of protests
- FAA staff shortages causing flight delays
Hello! :
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is visiting the White House today to meet with President Trump. They’ve just signed an agreement regarding critical minerals and rare earth materials.
💡 Why is this important: The White House has expressed that they’re struggling to secure these materials, much of which are under Chinese control.
After the meeting, Trump answered various reporters’ questions and made some significant announcements:
Trump agrees to meet with Xi: He stated that he will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping during an upcoming summit in South Korea, even though he hinted last week that such a meeting might not be necessary.
Trump’s thoughts on Ukraine war: When asked if he believed Ukraine could win against Russia, Trump remarked, “They could still win, I don’t think so, but they could.”
Awkward moment alert: Trump took a moment to express frustration about a camera capturing a mirror in the White House, noting that it’s 400 years old.
What’s on the agenda for later today:
Louisiana State University’s baseball team is scheduled to visit the White House to celebrate their 2025 national championship win.
Secret Service discovers concerning find:
A hunting stand was discovered by the Secret Service in Palm Beach, Florida, close to the exit area of Air Force One. This was found as Trump landed at Palm Beach International Airport.
FBI Director Kash Patel commented, saying, “I doubt it,” when asked about the implications of the stand. He noted that no individuals were present at the site and that the FBI is currently leading the investigation, including cell phone analysis to gather evidence.
Government shutdown continues:
Who would be considered the most stubborn among them?
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) is vocal about his discontent as he becomes a prominent Republican voice in the ongoing struggles regarding the government shutdown. This marks a notable shift from his usual demeanor, as the party has shown a firm refusal to negotiate with Democrats.
Context: In the weeks since the government shutdown started, Johnson has continuously stated that Republicans will not negotiate on health care issues until Democrats stop “holding the government hostage.” He raised his voice during a recent press conference, indicating growing tension.
Democrats also face pressure: According to reports, they are increasingly pressed by their leftist base not to support the Republican funding bill.
Why the pressure? Grassroots Democrats disillusioned with the Trump administration are pushing for action. Recent “No Kings” demonstrations saw millions participating across the country, signaling discontent with the current administration. If Democrats don’t take action to reopen the government, they risk backlash from the left.
What’s on today’s agenda?
The Senate is gearing up for the 11th vote regarding government funding today, and they expect similar results.
Important dates ahead:
- Today: Senate staff members are not receiving pay.
- Friday: Next payday for federal employees.
- October 31st: Payday for military personnel and House representatives.
- November 1st: Open enrollment for Obamacare begins.
- November 5th: Senate staff will miss their next paycheck.
- November 21st: Thanksgiving week.
Related topics:
- Washington Post: Covers medical care costs for undocumented immigrants.
- USA Today: Highlights a senator’s concerns over education cuts amid the shutdown.
- The Hill: FAA notes delays caused by staffing issues during the shutdown.
Trump comments on protests:
This past Saturday, millions participated in “No Kings” protests across the nation. With around 2,600 protests taking place in 50 states, significant gatherings were evident in Washington D.C., New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
Trump’s response: When asked about the demonstrations, Trump stated, “I’m not a king. I work hard to make our country great. That’s all.” He dismissed the protests as “small” and “ineffective.”
He also posted an edited video of himself wearing a crown while piloting a fighter jet labeled “King Trump,” further stirring up reactions.
Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) criticized Trump’s self-description, suggesting it was distasteful, while Senator Patti Murray (D-Wash) called his actions “disgraceful.”
📸 Aerial footage and images from the protests:
- New York City
- Washington D.C.
- Philadelphia
The House is adjourned but the Senate is in session. Trump will be meeting the LSU baseball champions at 4 PM, followed by a Senate vote at 5:30 PM.
Quick updates:
- Debris from a Marine Corps training exercise impacted a California Highway Patrol vehicle, but no injuries occurred.
- The Supreme Court is set to review the constitutionality of a gun possession ban for drug users next summer.
- Amazon Web Services experienced a significant outage this morning that disrupted several major websites and apps.
- Former lawmaker George Santos (R-N.Y.) had his prison sentence commuted by Trump, and he learned of it while in jail.
On a lighter note, National Chicken and Waffle Day is being celebrated today, and daylight saving time ends early this year on November 2. If you feel like this change came fast, that’s because it did.
Lastly, I have to say, I found it oddly satisfying to watch a video of an elephant crushing pumpkins. Just a small joy in the day.
