Live updates: September jobs report shows gains; Trump signs Epstein files bill

President Trump has signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which requires the Justice Department to release all unclassified documents related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. This legislation follows a near-unanimous vote in Congress, reflecting bipartisan support for transparency regarding Epstein's case. The move comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Trump's past associations with Epstein.

The Trump administration is preparing a sweeping executive order that would prevent states from establishing their own regulations on artificial intelligence (AI). This order aims to create a federal framework for AI governance and includes the formation of a litigation task force to address legal challenges.

The U.S. added 119,000 jobs in September as the unemployment rate rose to 4.4 percent, according to data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This report was delayed due to a federal government shutdown, which impacted the timely collection of employment data.

US and Russian officials have drafted a plan to end the Ukraine war that requires Kyiv to cede territory and significantly reduce its military forces. This proposal is likely to be perceived as a capitulation by Ukraine, facing opposition from the EU. Additionally, Donald Trump has signed a bill to release more documents related to Jeffrey Epstein.

President Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandates the release of around 100,000 documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. The legislation, introduced by Representatives Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie, requires Attorney General Pam Bondi to review and release these documents within a specified timeline. This move aims to enhance transparency regarding Epstein's criminal activities.

Ninety state officials have urged President Trump and Congress to address the national debt crisis, warning of a looming 'painful age of reckoning.' They have called for a plan to achieve a balanced budget by July 4, 2026, coinciding with the nation's 250th anniversary.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris challenged President Donald Trump to release the Epstein files during a Wednesday podcast appearance. Harris accused Trump of 'gaslighting' America regarding the Epstein case, emphasizing the need for transparency.

A suspected Russian hacker has been arrested on the Thai resort island of Phuket. The individual was wanted by the FBI for allegedly orchestrating cyberattacks against U.S. and European government agencies, according to officials.