IRS furloughs nearly half its workforce amid shutdown

There's increasing pressure on House Speaker Mike Johnson to reconvene the House for a crucial vote on military pay during the ongoing shutdown. President Trump has indicated that a standalone military pay bill is likely to be introduced, highlighting the bipartisan support for ensuring that service members receive their pay despite the current political impasse. This is significant as it reflects a commitment to our military personnel and their families, ensuring they are not left in financial uncertainty during these challenging times.

The US Senate is still at an impasse over legislation to end the government shutdown, with Donald Trump threatening to penalize Democrats for the ongoing funding crisis. This deadlock has resulted in the closure of federal agencies and the furlough of numerous workers across the country. The situation is critical as it affects not only government operations but also the livelihoods of many Americans, highlighting the urgent need for bipartisan cooperation to resolve the issue.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has surprisingly received praise from the co-hosts of 'The View' and CNN's Wolf Blitzer for her call for bipartisanship during the ongoing government shutdown negotiations. This recognition highlights a rare moment of agreement in a highly polarized political climate, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in resolving critical issues.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has voiced his support for a stand-alone bill to ensure military personnel are paid during the ongoing government shutdown. This endorsement is significant as it highlights the urgent need to address the financial stability of military families, especially during uncertain times. Jeffries is calling on House Speaker Mike Johnson to reconvene Congress, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing military pay amidst political gridlock.

A recent C-SPAN call highlighted concerns regarding the potential effects of a government shutdown, with a caller directly confronting Representative Johnson about the implications for citizens. This interaction underscores the ongoing debate about government funding and its impact on everyday life, making it a significant moment in the current political climate.

The IRS has announced new tax brackets for 2026, which could provide a financial boost for millions of Americans due to inflation adjustments. This change is significant as it helps taxpayers keep more of their earnings in light of rising costs, making it a timely update that could ease financial pressures for many households.

The impending government shutdown is set to impact federal workers across the nation, as they will not receive their paychecks until the budget standoff is resolved. This situation is concerning not only for the employees who rely on their salaries for daily expenses but also for the broader economy, as it could lead to decreased consumer spending and increased financial strain on families.

A recent study reveals that emergency Medicaid spending constitutes less than 1% of the program's total expenses, yet it has become a contentious issue amid ongoing discussions about federal budget cuts. With Republicans advocating for a trillion-dollar reduction in Medicaid funding, this finding highlights the disproportionate focus on emergency spending in the broader debate over healthcare funding. Understanding the actual impact of emergency Medicaid is crucial as it plays a significant role in the lives of many Americans who rely on this safety net.

The IRS is set to furlough nearly half of its workforce as the government shutdown continues into its ninth day. This decision follows a failed Senate vote to reopen the government, with Republicans refusing to discuss health care until Democrats agree on a short-term spending plan. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing political stalemate and its direct impact on federal employees and services.

The Senate is gearing up for its seventh vote to end the ongoing government shutdown, which has seen six previous attempts fail. This deadlock highlights the deepening divide between the parties, as they continue to blame each other for the impasse. The situation is critical as it affects government operations and services, making it essential for lawmakers to find a resolution soon.

The ongoing government shutdown has left Congress in a state of paralysis, with lawmakers struggling to find the votes needed to resolve the impasse. This situation is critical as it affects millions of Americans who rely on government services and funding. The inability to reach an agreement not only highlights the deep divisions within Congress but also raises concerns about the potential long-term impacts on the economy and public trust in government.

As the government shutdown enters its second week, senators are increasingly worried about the impact on air traffic, with significant flight delays and controller absences reminiscent of the 2019 shutdown. This situation is critical as it could exacerbate existing issues and hinder efforts to resolve the ongoing stalemate in Congress. The potential for a repeat of past disruptions raises alarms for travelers and the aviation industry alike.

Fans of the classic legal drama 'Matlock' can rejoice as the show is set to return with new episodes for its second season. This revival not only brings back the beloved character played by Andy Griffith but also promises to deliver fresh storylines that resonate with today's audience. The return of 'Matlock' is significant as it highlights the enduring appeal of courtroom dramas and the nostalgia for classic television, making it a must-watch for both old fans and new viewers.

Bryan Freedman, a prominent celebrity lawyer known for his aggressive tactics, is now facing a civil lawsuit and a state bar complaint related to a previous case involving actor Justin Baldoni. This situation raises concerns about Freedman's legal practices and could impact his reputation in the industry, as well as the outcomes for his clients.

Exciting news for documentary lovers! Amazon is set to premiere a documentary about Melania Trump, directed by Brett Ratner, in theaters this January 2026. This film promises to offer a unique perspective on the former First Lady's life and influence, making it a significant addition to the cinematic landscape. Fans of political documentaries and those interested in the Trump family will definitely want to mark their calendars.

The iconic Tony Dapolito Recreation Center in New York City's West Village, known for its stunning Keith Haring mural, may be spared from demolition thanks to mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani's support for its preservation. This news is significant for locals who cherish the center as a cultural landmark and community hub, highlighting the importance of maintaining historical sites in urban areas.

In a recent statement, Trump emphasized that any federal cuts during the government shutdown would specifically target Democratic programs, highlighting the ongoing partisan divide. This comes as the Senate failed to pass competing funding bills, further complicating the budget situation. Trump's remarks also included gratitude towards Republican Congressman Brian Mast for his insights on the Middle East, showcasing his focus on diplomatic efforts. This situation is significant as it reflects the challenges in reaching bipartisan agreements and the potential impact on government services.

President Trump has announced a significant deal with Finland to enhance the U.S. icebreaker fleet by acquiring 11 new ships. This agreement includes purchasing four icebreakers from Finland and constructing seven more in the U.S. This move is crucial as it strengthens the U.S. presence in Arctic waters, ensuring better navigation and support for scientific research, which is increasingly important in the context of climate change.