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Today’s Sponsor: Ground News
Today’s Rundown:
- SENATE BLOCKS GOP PLAN TO PAY ‘ESSENTIAL’ WORKERS DURING SHUTDOWN: The Senate failed to advance a Republican bill that would have paid military, federal employees, and some contractors who are still working during the shutdown. The measure fell short of the 60 votes needed. Democrats argued it would let the White House decide who counts as “essential,” weakening pressure to reopen the government. A narrower Democratic alternative also faced GOP objections. The stalemate keeps pressure on both parties as the shutdown drags on.
- TRUMP HALTS CANADA TRADE TALKS OVER REAGAN ANTI-TARIFF AD: President Trump said he’s pausing negotiations with Canada after Ottawa ran an ad using Ronald Reagan’s words criticizing tariffs. The move injects new uncertainty into cross-border trade that supports millions of jobs. Canada has defended the spot, while U.S. business groups warned against escalating tensions. It’s unclear how long the freeze will last or whether existing tariffs will change. Markets and supply chains are watching for fallout.
- ERIC ADAMS ENDORSES ANDREW CUOMO IN NYC MAYORAL RACE: New York City Mayor Eric Adams threw his support behind former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a onetime rival, in the city’s high-stakes mayoral race. The endorsement aims to consolidate moderate voters against Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani. It also deepens divides inside the city’s Democratic coalition. Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid misconduct allegations he denies, is pitching himself as a centrist. The race now turns on turnout and whether GOP nominee Curtis Sliwa stays in.
- META CUTS ~600 JOBS FROM AI DIVISION IN RESTRUCTURING PUSH: Meta is trimming about 600 roles across its AI org, with reductions hitting FAIR research and parts of product/infrastructure. The company says it’s refocusing resources toward its “superintelligence” effort. Impacted staff can apply for internal transfers, but leadership framed the move as streamlining. The cuts follow huge AI spending and data-center plans. Investors will watch how the shift affects model quality and product rollouts.
- CHAUNCEY BILLUPS, TERRY ROZIER ARRESTED IN WIDENING GAMBLING PROBE: Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and Heat guard Terry Rozier were arrested in related federal investigations, officials said. One case involves an alleged mafia-linked poker ring; another centers on sports-betting violations. The NBA said it’s cooperating with authorities and will review discipline. The arrests deepen league concerns after months of betting headlines. Court filings are expected to detail the charges in coming days.
- JACK SMITH ASKS CONGRESS FOR PUBLIC TESTIMONY ON TRUMP PROBES: Former special counsel Jack Smith requested open hearings before House and Senate Judiciary to counter what he calls mischaracterizations of his investigations. He argues public sessions would let him address claims directly. Republicans have signaled interest but not agreed on timing. Any hearing would likely draw heavy political fire from both sides. Smith has kept a low profile since leaving his role.
- GUCCI MANE SHARES HEALTH UPDATE AFTER REVEALING DIAGNOSES: Rapper Gucci Mane said he’s managing bipolar disorder and schizophrenia with treatment and family support. He first discussed the diagnoses while promoting a new book. Fans and peers flooded social media with support. Advocates say public figures can help reduce stigma by speaking openly about mental health. He plans to keep performing while prioritizing care.
- CROCS X T-PAIN DROP ‘BOOTS WITH THE FUR’ COLLAB: Crocs launched a tall, fur-lined boot inspired by T-Pain’s famous lyric, complete with matching clogs and accessories. The limited release leans into 2000s nostalgia and meme culture. Early stock sold quickly online, with more drops set for select retailers. It’s another big-name collaboration for Crocs as it pushes seasonal footwear. Buyers should check sizing; the boots run tall and plush.
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