Gerrymandering won’t work — it may tweak Congress but 2030 census dooms blue states’ sway

Amid the ongoing government shutdown, nearly 37,000 VA employees are either furloughed or working without pay. However, the good news is that the department's medical centers, outpatient clinics, and veterans centers continue to operate normally thanks to advanced appropriations from Congress. This situation highlights the challenges faced by federal employees while ensuring that essential services for veterans remain uninterrupted.

The U.S. military has conducted another strike on a boat believed to be carrying narco-terrorists, raising significant concerns in Congress about the implications for due process and the legal authority behind such actions. This situation is critical as it highlights the ongoing debate over military engagement and the balance between national security and legal rights.

Mehmet Oz, the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, addressed concerns about rising ACA premium payments, suggesting that the expected increases are not a major issue. He emphasized that the lack of congressional action to extend enhanced tax credits should not be a cause for alarm, indicating a belief that these credits should naturally expire. This perspective is significant as it reflects the administration's stance on healthcare affordability and the ongoing debate over the ACA's future.

Katherine 'Kat' Abughazaleh, a Democratic congressional candidate, has been indicted on federal charges for her involvement in a protest against ICE in Illinois that escalated into violence. This incident raises significant concerns about the intersection of political activism and legal consequences, highlighting the tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the U.S. and the lengths to which individuals will go to express their dissent.

The ongoing 29-day government shutdown is intensifying as multiple deadlines loom, putting significant pressure on Congress to reach a resolution. This situation is critical as it affects countless services and programs that rely on government funding, highlighting the urgent need for bipartisan cooperation to restore normalcy.

The ongoing government shutdown is creating significant challenges for many Americans, with federal workers furloughed and small businesses struggling to access loans. As Congress remains unable to agree on a stopgap measure, the situation is expected to worsen, leading to more flight delays and jeopardizing essential nonprofit services. This matters because it affects the livelihoods of countless individuals and the overall economy, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution.

The ongoing government shutdown is causing significant financial strain, leading to urgent discussions among Congress members to find a resolution. With critical deadlines approaching, there's a growing concern over the potential halt of essential services like food-stamp benefits and military paychecks. This situation matters because it directly impacts the livelihoods of many Americans who rely on these supports, highlighting the urgent need for bipartisan cooperation to prevent further economic fallout.

States running their own health care marketplaces are sounding the alarm over the potential expiration of enhanced Obamacare subsidies. They warn that if Congress doesn't act, many consumers may drop their insurance coverage, reversing the record enrollment growth seen in recent years. This situation is critical as it could leave millions without affordable health care options, impacting public health and financial stability.

Paul Newman's charming NYC maisonette has hit the market for the first time in decades, following the recent sale of his penthouse in a competitive bidding war. This two-bedroom, 1.5-bath residence at 1120 Fifth Ave. is part of Newman's historic Carnegie Hill home, making it a significant piece of real estate for fans and collectors alike. The listing not only highlights Newman's legacy but also offers a unique opportunity for buyers to own a slice of Hollywood history in one of New York's most desirable neighborhoods.

In a significant meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea, both leaders reached important agreements on tariffs and rare earths. This meeting is crucial as it signals a potential thaw in US-China trade relations, which have been tense in recent years. The decisions made could lead to improved economic cooperation and stability in global markets, benefiting both nations and their trading partners.

In a recent meeting in South Korea, President Trump rated his discussions with Chinese leader Xi Jinping a remarkable '12 out of 10', highlighting their agreement on numerous issues. This positive interaction is significant as it suggests a potential easing of trade tensions between the two nations, which could lead to more stable economic relations and benefits for global markets.

The entertainment world is mourning the loss of actor Myers, who famously portrayed Young Will in 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.' After years of battling heart issues, his passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the impact he had on fans and the industry. His role in the beloved series left a lasting legacy, and he will be remembered for his contributions to television.

President Donald Trump has raised concerns by suggesting that the U.S. might resume nuclear weapons testing for the first time in thirty years, indicating a potential arms race with Russia and China. This statement is significant as it could escalate global tensions and undermine decades of nuclear non-proliferation efforts, raising alarms among international leaders and peace advocates.

President Trump has directed the Pentagon to begin testing nuclear weapons on par with Russia and China, a move that raises significant concerns about escalating tensions and the potential for a new arms race. This decision could have far-reaching implications for global security and diplomatic relations, as it signals a shift towards a more aggressive military posture.