Traffic congestion hits a record high, spreading to more hours of the week

This week in Washington was marked by significant developments in foreign policy, Congressional redistricting, and a special election, as reported by NPR's Domenico Montanaro and Tamara Keith. The discussions and decisions made during this busy week reflect ongoing political dynamics and the evolving landscape of governance in the U.S.

Marla Wendel experienced a stroke while three months pregnant, a life-altering event that she reflects on over 30 years later with her now-adult son, Daniel. Their conversation highlights the challenges and miracles surrounding her recovery and the bond formed through this experience.

After Hurricane Helene, a number of volunteer emergency responders have chosen to pursue certification in disaster response. This initiative aims to ensure that they are adequately prepared to assist their communities during future emergencies.

Depression and other mental health issues are prevalent among police officers, particularly due to the high-stress nature of their work. In Colorado, one officer has discovered a therapeutic outlet through standup comedy, which has provided him with relief from these challenges.

The Trump administration is facing significant backlash following a controversial military strike on a Venezuelan boat, which allegedly targeted survivors after an initial attack. This incident has raised serious concerns about potential violations of international law and due process, prompting scrutiny from lawmakers and human rights advocates.

The Justice Department has issued a memo instructing prison inspectors to cease the evaluation of prisons based on standards aimed at safeguarding the LGBTQ community, particularly transgender individuals, from sexual violence. This directive marks a significant shift in the approach to prison safety and oversight regarding vulnerable populations.

Somali-Americans in Minnesota are uniting against President Donald Trump's divisive rhetoric, which they claim has incited fear within their communities. Trump's recent comments and threats regarding immigration enforcement have exacerbated tensions, prompting community leaders to speak out against the negative impact on Somali-Americans.

Representative Ilhan Omar criticized President Trump's recent attacks on Somali immigrants, stating that they serve to deflect attention from scrutiny regarding his administration. Omar, who immigrated from Somalia, emphasized the negative impact of such rhetoric on the Somali community in the U.S.