Five ways America can stop a new Cold War with China from turning hot

The recent US federal government shutdown has sparked a debate among Guardian readers, many of whom support the Democrats' decision to reject a Republican funding plan in hopes of negotiating better terms on healthcare and other issues. This shutdown marks a significant moment for the Democrats as they navigate their minority status in Congress following the re-election of Donald Trump. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions in US politics and the challenges faced by the Democrats in asserting their priorities.

The US government has entered its third day of shutdown, with Republicans and Democrats struggling to reach an agreement on funding. This impasse is significant as it affects federal services and employees, highlighting the ongoing political divide in Congress. As the Senate prepares to vote on competing proposals, the lack of progress raises concerns about the potential long-term impacts on government operations and public trust.

A coalition of 74 legal, religious, and advocacy groups is sounding the alarm over the Trump administration's decision to freeze $88 million in funding aimed at supporting survivors of human trafficking. This funding cut comes at a critical time when efforts to combat human trafficking are more important than ever. The groups argue that without this financial support, vulnerable individuals will be left without essential resources, potentially enabling further exploitation. The situation highlights the urgent need for Congress to act and ensure that survivors receive the help they desperately need.

Cori Bush, the former representative for Missouri's 1st Congressional District, is making a significant comeback by announcing her bid to reclaim her seat after losing in the primary last year. Her motivation stems from her deep connection to the working-class community in St. Louis, emphasizing the importance of representation for those often overlooked. This move is crucial as it highlights the ongoing struggle for voices from diverse backgrounds in Congress, and Bush's return could invigorate her supporters and bring fresh perspectives to the political landscape.

Cori Bush, a progressive member of the Squad, is making a comeback by launching a new campaign for Congress in Missouri after her previous bid was cut short by her anti-Israel views. This is significant as it highlights the ongoing tensions within the Democratic Party regarding foreign policy and the influence of progressive voices. Bush's determination to re-enter the race shows her commitment to fighting for her beliefs and represents a broader movement among progressives to challenge the status quo.

As the government shutdown stretches into its third day, there seems to be no resolution in sight, leaving many Americans anxious about the impact on services and jobs. Kristen Welker from Meet the Press provides insights on the current stalemate in Congress, highlighting the urgency for lawmakers to come together and find a solution. This situation matters because prolonged shutdowns can disrupt essential government functions and affect millions of citizens.

Senator Thom Tillis from North Carolina expressed uncertainty about whether President Trump is winning the ongoing trade war, especially since a comprehensive trade deal with China has not yet been reached. He emphasized that we are still in the early stages of this economic battle, highlighting the complexities and challenges ahead. This statement reflects the cautious stance some lawmakers are taking as they assess the impact of trade policies on the economy and American businesses.

A new Republican bill proposes mandatory 10-year sentences for migrants who re-enter the U.S. illegally, drawing criticism for its harsh penalties on non-violent offenses. This legislation reflects a significant shift in immigration policy, emphasizing punitive measures over reform. Critics argue that it represents a move towards mass incarceration, raising concerns about the impact on families and communities. The bill is part of a broader GOP strategy to deter unauthorized immigration, but many believe it could lead to unjust consequences for vulnerable populations.

President Trump has informed Congress that the United States is engaged in an 'armed conflict' with drug cartels, as detailed in a document regarding military actions against suspected drug trafficking boats. This declaration highlights the ongoing challenges the U.S. faces in combating drug-related violence and trafficking, emphasizing the government's commitment to addressing these issues.

The Trump administration is attempting to justify military strikes on Venezuelan drug boats by claiming that the U.S. is in a 'non-international armed conflict' with drug cartels. This controversial legal theory raises significant concerns about the implications for U.S. military engagement and international law. It matters because it could set a precedent for how the U.S. engages in conflicts that are not formally declared, potentially expanding the scope of military actions without congressional approval.

President Trump has declared that the U.S. is in an 'armed conflict' with drug cartels, following military strikes on boats from Venezuela suspected of trafficking narcotics. This decisive action underscores the administration's commitment to protecting Americans from drug-related threats, highlighting the ongoing battle against narco-trafficking.

Republican Senate Leader John Thune has criticized the ongoing government shutdown, labeling it as 'stupid' and expressing skepticism about negotiations with Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer. Thune's remarks highlight the deepening partisan divide and the challenges in reaching a resolution, which could have significant implications for government operations and public services.

Sean 'Diddy' Combs is facing sentencing after being convicted of prostitution charges, with prosecutors arguing that he is portraying himself as a victim in the situation. This case highlights the serious implications of such offenses and raises questions about accountability in the entertainment industry. As Combs awaits a potentially lengthy prison sentence, the outcome could have significant repercussions not only for him but also for the broader conversation around celebrity behavior and legal consequences.

The Yankees are seen as strong favorites against the Blue Jays in the ALDS, which highlights their competitive edge in the postseason. This matchup is significant as it showcases the Yankees' potential to advance further in the playoffs, making it an exciting time for fans and bettors alike.

The ongoing US government shutdown has led to the White House halting $2.1 billion in funding for Chicago's transport projects, a move that could significantly impact the city's transit modernization efforts. With little hope for a resolution in sight, as indicated by Mike Johnson's comments, this funding freeze not only affects local infrastructure but also highlights the broader implications of political gridlock in Washington. The situation underscores the urgent need for bipartisan cooperation to prevent further disruptions.

Exciting news for fans of children's programming! 'Reading Rainbow' is making a comeback with social media star librarian Mychal Threets at the helm. The beloved series will return for four episodes starting this Saturday, reigniting the joy of reading for a new generation. This revival is significant as it not only brings back a cherished show but also highlights the importance of literacy and storytelling in today's digital age.

Joy Reid recently unleashed a fiery response to JD Vance's comments suggesting she should be more grateful for her success in the U.S. This exchange highlights the ongoing tensions in political discourse, especially regarding race and success. Reid's passionate rebuttal underscores the frustrations many feel about being told to be grateful in a system that often marginalizes voices like hers. This incident not only reflects the current political climate but also raises questions about the expectations placed on public figures of color.

The recent Conservative party conference highlighted Kemi Badenoch's struggles to connect with voters and address the party's unpopularity. Her leadership has been marked by strategic misjudgments and poor policy choices, raising concerns about her ability to rejuvenate the party after a significant electoral defeat. This matters because the direction of the Conservative party could impact the UK's political landscape and future governance.