Watch live: Johnson speaks as shutdown approaches second week

Over the weekend, the Trump administration executed mass firings affecting hundreds of federal employees, particularly those involved in mental health services and disease control. This drastic move is seen as a tactic to pressure Democratic lawmakers amid a prolonged government shutdown. The implications of these firings are significant, as they could hinder critical services and response efforts during a time of national need, raising concerns about the administration's priorities and the well-being of public health.

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson has raised alarms about the ongoing government shutdown, now in its thirteenth day, suggesting it could extend to become one of the longest in American history. This situation is particularly concerning as the Trump administration has already laid off over 4,000 federal workers across seven agencies, highlighting the significant impact on public services and employees. The implications of such a prolonged shutdown could be far-reaching, affecting everything from government operations to the livelihoods of those who depend on federal jobs.

President Trump has instructed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to pay service members using previously allocated funds amid the ongoing government shutdown. This decision aims to bypass Congressional gridlock and alleviate pressure on House Speaker Mike Johnson, who is under increasing calls to reconvene the House for a vote on Republican proposals. This situation highlights the complexities of governance during a shutdown and raises questions about the executive's authority in financial matters.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has stated that President Trump has not allowed House Speaker Mike Johnson and Republicans to negotiate regarding the ongoing government shutdown, which has now lasted 13 days. This situation highlights the significant influence Trump still holds over the Republican Party and raises concerns about the potential for a resolution to the shutdown, affecting millions of Americans who rely on government services.

House Speaker Mike Johnson is reaching out to Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene following her public dissent against the GOP's approach to the government shutdown. Greene has been vocal about extending enhanced Obamacare subsidies, and Johnson's invitation for her to collaborate on this issue highlights the ongoing tensions within the party. This matters as it reflects the challenges the GOP faces in unifying its members while addressing critical healthcare policies.

As the government shutdown stretches into its third week, Republican lawmakers John Kennedy and Steve Scalise are pointing fingers at Chuck Schumer and the Democrats, claiming they are responsible for the ongoing dysfunction in the Senate. Kennedy's colorful comparison of the Senate's current state to a 'game room in a mental hospital' highlights the frustration many feel about the political stalemate. This situation matters because it affects millions of Americans relying on government services and raises concerns about the overall effectiveness of the legislative process.

Speaker Mike Johnson has criticized the expiring Obamacare subsidies, labeling them a 'boondoggle' amid an ongoing government shutdown that is nearing two weeks without resolution. This situation highlights the contentious debate over healthcare funding and its implications for millions relying on these subsidies, making it a significant issue in the current political landscape.

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson has issued a stark warning that the ongoing government shutdown could become the longest in history. He stated that he will not engage in negotiations with Democrats until they agree to pause their health care demands and work towards reopening the government. This situation is critical as prolonged shutdowns can lead to significant disruptions in government services and impact millions of Americans, highlighting the urgent need for bipartisan cooperation.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has expressed serious concerns about the ongoing government shutdown, which has now reached its 13th day. He attributes the stalemate to Democratic obstruction, warning that the U.S. is heading toward one of the longest shutdowns in history. This situation is critical as it affects federal services and the economy, highlighting the urgent need for bipartisan cooperation to resolve the impasse.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has expressed strong opposition to the proposed extension of COVID-era Obamacare premium subsidies, labeling it a 'boondoggle.' He emphasized that there is no quick solution that Congress can implement to address this issue. This matters because it highlights ongoing tensions in Congress regarding healthcare policy and the future of Obamacare, which affects millions of Americans.

Speaker Mike Johnson has raised concerns that the ongoing government shutdown could become one of the longest in American history if Democrats do not agree to the House's stopgap bill. This situation is significant as it highlights the deepening partisan divide and the potential impact on federal services and employees, emphasizing the urgency for bipartisan cooperation to resolve the crisis.

A new bill proposed by House Republicans threatens to withhold federal funds from cities that have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day. This move has sparked significant controversy, as it raises questions about the recognition of Indigenous rights and the historical implications of celebrating Columbus. The bill reflects ongoing tensions in the U.S. regarding how history is remembered and who gets to decide which narratives are honored. This situation is crucial as it could impact local governance and funding, highlighting the broader national debate over historical representation.

Filmmaker Nancy Meyers expressed her deep sorrow over the passing of her close friend Diane Keaton, whom she referred to as a sister. In an emotional tribute, Meyers reflected on their nearly 40-year friendship and how Keaton profoundly impacted her life. This heartfelt acknowledgment highlights the significance of their bond and the loss felt in the film community.

In a shocking turn of events, a 58-year-old man walked into a Brooklyn police precinct early in the morning, confessing to the murder of his friend while visibly covered in blood. This incident raises serious concerns about public safety and the suspect's troubling history, which includes 16 prior arrests. Such violent acts not only impact the victims and their families but also shake the community's sense of security.

Islanders coach Patrick Roy is showing strong support for goaltender Ilya Sorokin despite the team's recent struggles, including a 5-2 loss to the Jets. This backing is crucial as it helps maintain Sorokin's confidence and morale during a challenging period, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and resilience in sports.

Alec Baldwin and his brother Stephen were involved in a serious car crash in East Hampton, New York, where their Range Rover collided with a tree, resulting in significant damage to the vehicle. This incident raises concerns about road safety and the potential consequences of distracted or reckless driving, especially for public figures like Baldwin.

Cher and her boyfriend Alexander 'AE' Edwards were spotted looking very much in love during their outing in New York City. They attended a roller skating installation at the Faena before making a stylish appearance at Indochine. This sighting not only highlights their relationship but also adds a touch of glamour to the NYC social scene, showcasing how love can shine brightly in the bustling city.

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson has raised alarms about the ongoing government shutdown, now in its thirteenth day, suggesting it could extend to become one of the longest in U.S. history. This situation is critical as it has already resulted in the layoff of over 4,000 federal workers across seven agencies, highlighting the significant impact on public services and the economy. The uncertainty surrounding the shutdown raises concerns for many Americans who rely on government services and jobs.