US government shutdown festers into third week after ninth failed Senate vote

Democratic Representative Seth Moulton has officially announced his primary challenge for Senator Ed Markey's seat in Massachusetts, citing concerns over Markey's age and long tenure in Congress. Moulton, who acknowledges Markey's positive qualities, argues that at 79, Markey may be too old to effectively serve, especially as he would be 86 by the end of the next term. This challenge highlights the ongoing debate about age and experience in politics, and it could significantly impact the Democratic landscape in Massachusetts.

Democratic Representative Seth Moulton has officially announced his primary challenge for Senator Ed Markey's seat in Massachusetts, citing concerns over Markey's age and long tenure in Congress. Moulton, who acknowledges Markey's positive qualities, argues that at 79, Markey may be too old to effectively serve, especially as he would be 86 by the end of the next term. This challenge highlights the ongoing debate about age and experience in politics, and it could significantly impact the Democratic landscape in Massachusetts.

The Los Angeles County GOP chair, Roxanne Hoge, has criticized the county's Democratic leaders for declaring a state of emergency in response to federal immigration enforcement by ICE. This move has sparked controversy, with Hoge accusing the Democrats of lacking integrity and using the situation for political gain. The declaration raises questions about the balance between local governance and federal immigration policies, highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the U.S.

The Los Angeles County GOP chair, Roxanne Hoge, has criticized the county's Democratic leaders for declaring a state of emergency in response to federal immigration enforcement by ICE. This move has sparked controversy, with Hoge accusing the Democrats of lacking integrity and using the situation for political gain. The declaration raises questions about the balance between local governance and federal immigration policies, highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the U.S.

JD Vance has stepped up to defend young Republican leaders facing backlash after Politico revealed numerous racist messages from their private group chat. He argues that these individuals shouldn't have their lives ruined over past mistakes, emphasizing the importance of understanding and forgiveness. This stance highlights a growing conversation about accountability and the impact of social media on personal reputations.

JD Vance has stepped up to defend young Republican leaders facing backlash after Politico revealed numerous racist messages from their private group chat. He argues that these individuals shouldn't have their lives ruined over past mistakes, emphasizing the importance of understanding and forgiveness. This stance highlights a growing conversation about accountability and the impact of social media on personal reputations.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune is introducing a full-year spending bill for the Pentagon, which adds a new twist to the ongoing shutdown negotiations. This move challenges Democrats to oppose the bill while they are focused on health care issues, highlighting the complexities of the budget discussions. The outcome could significantly impact the negotiations and the government's funding strategy.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune is introducing a full-year spending bill for the Pentagon, which adds a new twist to the ongoing shutdown negotiations. This move challenges Democrats to oppose the bill while they are focused on health care issues, highlighting the complexities of the budget discussions. The outcome could significantly impact the negotiations and the government's funding strategy.

Several Senate Democrats are questioning Google and YouTube regarding their recent settlement of a lawsuit with former President Trump. This lawsuit stemmed from YouTube's suspension of Trump's account following the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. The inquiries highlight concerns about accountability and transparency in how major tech companies handle content moderation, especially regarding political figures. This matter is significant as it touches on the intersection of technology, politics, and free speech.

Several Senate Democrats are questioning Google and YouTube regarding their recent settlement of a lawsuit with former President Trump. This lawsuit stemmed from YouTube's suspension of Trump's account following the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. The inquiries highlight concerns about accountability and transparency in how major tech companies handle content moderation, especially regarding political figures. This matter is significant as it touches on the intersection of technology, politics, and free speech.

At a farmers market in Wisconsin, Democrats distributed bracelets with the phrase 'Is he dead yet?' in reference to Donald Trump, sparking outrage and accusations of hate speech. Critics argue that such actions are inappropriate and promote a toxic political environment. This incident highlights the growing polarization in American politics and raises questions about the limits of political expression.

At a farmers market in Wisconsin, Democrats distributed bracelets with the phrase 'Is he dead yet?' in reference to Donald Trump, sparking outrage and accusations of hate speech. Critics argue that such actions are inappropriate and promote a toxic political environment. This incident highlights the growing polarization in American politics and raises questions about the limits of political expression.

President Trump has given the CIA the green light to carry out covert operations in Venezuela, a move that raises significant concerns about escalating tensions in the region. This decision, which includes the possibility of land strikes, highlights the U.S. administration's aggressive stance towards Venezuela amid ongoing political turmoil. It matters because such actions could lead to further instability and conflict, impacting not only Venezuela but also its neighbors and U.S. foreign relations.

Democratic frontrunner Zohran Mamdani is facing criticism for avoiding a clear stance on the full decriminalization of prostitution. This indecision raises concerns about the potential impact on neighborhoods and crime rates, as many believe that decriminalization could lead to increased issues in communities. The debate is significant as it touches on public safety and the rights of sex workers, making it a crucial topic in the upcoming elections.

Rep. Dave Taylor from Ohio has initiated an investigation following the discovery of vandalism in his office, which included an American flag altered with a swastika. This incident highlights the ongoing issues of hate symbols and vandalism in political spaces, raising concerns about safety and respect in government offices.

The Supreme Court is currently examining the role of race in the redistricting process, which could have significant implications for how voting districts are drawn in the future. This discussion is crucial as it touches on the balance between fair representation and political influence, especially with upcoming cases related to mail-in ballots. The outcome may affect how political parties operate and how elections are conducted, making it a pivotal moment for voters and lawmakers alike.

Long Beach has taken a significant step to combat rising shoplifting incidents by passing the 'Safe Stores are Staffed Stores' ordinance. This new law mandates that large grocery stores and pharmacies must have at least one staff member overseeing every three self-checkout stations. This move highlights the city's commitment to ensuring a safer shopping environment, but it may also lead to longer wait times for customers and could impact the convenience that self-checkouts offer.

This weekend, New York City is opening the doors to over 300 hidden sites as part of the annual Open House New York festival. From secret gardens to abandoned post offices, this event allows the public to explore places that are usually off-limits. It's a unique opportunity to experience the city's rich history and architecture, making it a must-attend for locals and tourists alike.