Watch live: House Republicans give remarks as shutdown stretches into second week

Mike Johnson, the White House budget chief, recently avoided directly addressing whether he supports President Trump's alarming threat of mass layoffs during a potential government shutdown. While Trump indicated that federal employees could face termination within days, the administration has yet to act on this warning. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing tensions within the government regarding budgetary decisions and the potential impact on federal workers.

The Senate has successfully passed a significant defense policy bill, the National Defense Authorization Act, with a vote of 70-20, allocating $924.7 billion to fund the U.S. military for fiscal year 2026. This approval is crucial as it comes amidst a government shutdown, highlighting the importance of national security even in challenging political times. The bipartisan support reflects a commitment to maintaining military readiness and addressing defense needs.

The Senate has successfully advanced the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act with bipartisan support, marking a significant step forward during the ongoing government shutdown. This advancement is crucial as it ensures that defense funding and priorities are addressed, highlighting the importance of national security even amidst political challenges.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has raised concerns about the impact of the ongoing government shutdown, particularly regarding military pay. With U.S. troops facing missed paychecks, Johnson rejected the idea of a standalone bill to address this issue. Additionally, he commented on President Trump's controversial remarks about firing furloughed workers, highlighting the uncertainty that continues to loom over the situation. This matters because it directly affects the livelihoods of military personnel and raises questions about the government's priorities during a crisis.

As the government shutdown stretches into its ninth day, military families are increasingly anxious about the possibility of missing paychecks next week. This concern was highlighted by a military mom who reached out directly to Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, emphasizing the urgent need for a resolution. The situation is critical as it affects the financial stability of those who serve the nation, making it essential for lawmakers to act swiftly to prevent further hardship.

Senator Bernie Sanders and other Democratic leaders are facing criticism for dodging questions about Virginia candidate Jay Jones, who is under fire for sending violent text messages. This situation raises concerns about the party's stance on violence and accountability, especially as they navigate a politically charged environment. The reluctance to address the issue directly could impact public perception and voter trust ahead of upcoming elections.

The ongoing government shutdown is causing significant political tension, with the White House criticizing Democrats for their role in the impasse. This situation is crucial as it affects federal operations and services, highlighting the deep divisions in U.S. politics and the challenges of governance.

The Senate is set to vote on its long-awaited defense policy bill, which has been stalled for over a month. Thanks to Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker, an agreement has been reached to consider 17 stand-alone amendments along with a package of nearly 50 less controversial ones. This is significant as it paves the way for the National Defense Authorization Act, ensuring that vital defense policies and funding can move forward, reflecting the government's commitment to national security.

The ongoing government shutdown has now reached its ninth day, with the Senate failing for the seventh time to pass a bill to reopen it. This impasse highlights the Democrats' current advantage in negotiations, as they block the GOP's efforts. Additionally, Letitia James faces a federal indictment, adding to the political turmoil. This situation is significant as it affects federal operations and services, impacting millions of Americans who rely on government functions.

Democratic members of Congress are emphasizing health care as a key issue in their ongoing standoff with Republican lawmakers and President Donald Trump regarding the government shutdown. This focus on health care is significant as it highlights the Democrats' strategy to leverage a critical and relatable topic to rally support and draw attention to their priorities during a contentious political moment.

House Republicans are feeling the heat as pressure mounts on Democrats regarding the ongoing government shutdown. With the fiscal standoff dragging on, some GOP leaders are expressing unease about their strategy, highlighting the growing tension within the party. This situation is crucial as it not only affects government operations but also reflects the challenges Republicans face in uniting their members and addressing public concerns.

There's increasing pressure on House Speaker Mike Johnson to reconvene the House for a crucial vote on military pay during the ongoing shutdown. President Trump has indicated that a standalone military pay bill is likely to be introduced, highlighting the bipartisan support for ensuring that service members receive their pay despite the current political impasse. This is significant as it reflects a commitment to our military personnel and their families, ensuring they are not left in financial uncertainty during these challenging times.

The comedy film 'Get a Job,' featuring stars like Anna Kendrick and Miles Teller, is experiencing a resurgence on HBO Max. Despite its initial reception, the movie is gaining attention for its humor and relatable themes about the struggles of finding employment. This revival highlights how audiences can rediscover and appreciate films that may have been overlooked, making it a great time for viewers to check out this hidden gem.

Leah Lewis, known for her role in 'Matlock', has expressed a positive outlook following the reported firing of David Del Rio due to sexual assault allegations. She emphasized the importance of moving forward with strength, highlighting a collective resilience in the face of adversity. This statement not only reflects her personal stance but also resonates with broader conversations about accountability and support for survivors in the entertainment industry.

A New York Police Department officer was shot in the head in the Bronx late Thursday night, raising serious concerns about officer safety and crime in the area. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces and the urgent need for community support and resources to address violence.

The Giants have managed to dodge a significant setback once more, as they navigated through another injury scare involving Jaxson Dart. This is crucial for the team's morale and performance, especially after Russell Wilson's brief appearance, which added to the tension. Fans can breathe a sigh of relief as the team continues to show resilience in the face of challenges.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris recently expressed her concerns about the effectiveness of checks and balances meant to limit President Trump's actions, stating they have failed. During a promotional event for her new book '107 Days,' she engaged in a conversation with journalist Kara Swisher at the Warner Theatre, highlighting the ongoing challenges in American politics. This discussion is significant as it underscores the ongoing debates about accountability and governance in the current political climate.

Cindy McCain, the widow of the late Senator John McCain and the current head of the U.N. World Food Program, recently experienced a mild stroke but is now on the road to recovery. This news is significant as it highlights the health challenges faced by prominent figures and raises awareness about the importance of health monitoring, especially for those in leadership roles.